BEIJING (DI NEWS) : In a warm gesture reflecting China’s commitment to friendship, mutual respect, and international cooperation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China hosted the inaugural “Outstanding Diplomats Award” ceremony in Beijing to honor ambassadors who made remarkable contributions towards strengthening ties with China and promoting people to people connectivity.
The ceremony, held under the patronage of Wang Yi, brought together diplomats from various countries serving in China. Among the recipients was Khalil Hashmi, Ambassador of Pakistan to China, who became the first Pakistani ambassador in history to receive this prestigious recognition.
Other distinguished diplomats honored during the ceremony included ambassadors from Russia, Cambodia, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Colombia, and Uruguay, reflecting China’s broad diplomatic engagement and deep appreciation for international friendship.
Addressing the gathering, Wang Yi said China has always valued friends who sincerely contribute towards stronger relations and mutual understanding. He stated that China welcomes its friends to continue visiting and engaging with the Chinese people, adding that diplomacy should not only connect governments but also strengthen bonds between ordinary people.
During his speech, Wang Yi also referred to remarks previously made by Ambassador Khalil Hashmi regarding Pakistan China friendship. Quoting the Pakistani envoy, Wang Yi said that although Pakistan and China are connected by mountains, it is the immense people to people affection and trust between the two nations that truly keeps the friendship intact and enduring. Wang Yi said he fully agreed with this sentiment and praised the depth, warmth, and resilience of Pakistan China relations.
The Chinese Foreign Minister further thanked all ambassadors and diplomats for their positive role in enhancing cooperation with China and promoting peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding in an increasingly complex global environment.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Khalil Hashmi described Pakistan China friendship as time tested and rooted in mutual trust, strategic cooperation, and unwavering support for each other’s core interests.
He noted that Pakistan and China are set to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in just two days, calling the award a matter of immense personal honor and pride at such a historic moment in bilateral relations.
Ambassador Khalil Hashmi also congratulated all fellow recipients of the award and expressed confidence that Pakistan China relations would continue to reach new heights in the years ahead through stronger economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and deeper people to people connectivity.
“Pakistan China friendship Zindabad,” Ambassador Khalil Hashmi concluded to warm applause from the audience.
The event once again reflected China’s emphasis on friendship based diplomacy and highlighted the enduring spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that continues to shape Beijing’s relations with countries around the world, particularly its iron brother Pakistan.
