What a memorable visit it was! The joy of the eager Pakistani Nation knew no bounds. When two “Iron Brothers” meet, the whole world was awestruck by the overwhelming warmth. Last month we welcomed, His Excellency Xi Jinping on a historic visit to Pakistan. This was President Xi Jinping’s first visit to Pakistan, after having been elected as President of the People’s Republic of China, and came at an extraordinary moment in global history.

During this historic visit, Pakistan and China pledged to continue cooperation in all fields. As a result of this unforgettable visit, the Sino-Pak friendly relations touched new heights as both countries signed 51 agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for cooperation in different fields. Pakistan and China rolled out plans for a historic $46 billion portfolio agreed under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “Deeper than the deepest sea, higher than Himalayas and sweeter than honey:” This phrase is generally used to highlight the extent of closeness and intimacy of Pak-China relations. Both countries have enjoyed a long-term consistent goodwill towards each other. Friendship with China has long been the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy. Both countries enjoy close cooperation and hold identical views on important world issues. Our “all weather” relationship is based upon shared principles and interests and forms the foundation of cooperation in diverse fields. At the official, as well as popular levels, there is strong resonance of the long and rich history of close and cordial ties.

In the history of diplomatic relations since second half of the 20th century, Pakistan-China ties have always been considered exemplary and worth emulating. Both iron brothers have stood up with each other in most difficult times and have resisted hegemonic powers through relentless struggle.

In recent years, Pakistan-China ties have entered into a major phase of history. Both brotherly countries are pursuing the great China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Project (CPEC), a project, which once completed, will unleash enormous economic opportunities for regional growth and integration.

The CPEC, in physical terms, is a 2000 kilometers highway, stretching from Kashgar to Gwadar, through the Khunjrab pass, but in fact this will integrate the economies of the two countries. The project is designed to establish a number of economic zones and physical links connecting both the countries. It will begin a new chapter of economic cooperation and will subsequently pave the way for progress and prosperity in the region, generating massive trade and economic activity and opening up of new avenues for the people of two countries. Indeed, Sino-Pak relations have entered a new phase of long-term collaboration that is a step towards a comprehensive strategic partnership for peace and development in the region.

Pakistan has recently become founding member of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), launched by China. The Bank will provide much-needed capital to Asian countries to build their infrastructure and thus mitigate poverty in Asia and create conditions of peace, harmony and growth. China has consistently supported Pakistan’s application for full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

China and Pakistan are jointly making efforts to root out menace of terrorism and incredible efforts have been made in that regard in recent years.

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