Pakistan’s President Affirms Resilience of Friendship with China Amid Terror Threats
During his visit to Beijing, President Asif Ali Zardari asserted that Pakistan’s friendship with China remains intact despite terrorist attacks. He emphasized enduring cooperation and solidarity with China amidst ongoing security concerns surrounding Chinese workers in Pakistan. Leaders from both nations committed to deepening economic ties through continued development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and related projects.
In a recent visit to China, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed that terrorist attacks will not sever the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and China. During discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he declared, “Pakistan and China will always be friends, all-weather friends,” emphasizing that external threats would not undermine their relationship. The President’s remarks come amid concerns over the safety of Chinese workers in Pakistan, who are engaged in significant infrastructure projects under China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Asif Ali Zardari, who is in China for a multi-day visit, highlighted ongoing efforts by unidentified forces to disrupt Pakistan-China relations through attacks targeting Chinese nationals. Indeed, Chinese workers in Pakistan have faced peril, with recent attacks resulting in loss of life and raising safety alarms among Chinese citizens. The two leaders acknowledged the past challenges but expressed commitment to enhancing their economic partnership, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a crucial initiative designed to improve trade routes between the two nations and deepen bilateral ties. Recently, a $230 million airport in Gwadar, Pakistan, commenced operations despite delays due to security concerns. This facility will serve as a pivotal point for facilitating trade and economic development, as Gwadar is strategically positioned at the Arabian Sea, linking the western Chinese region with international waters.
During the talks, President Xi Jinping highlighted a mutual commitment to modernization and stated, “The Chinese side is willing to work with the Pakistani side to move forward hand-in-hand on our respective paths of modernization.” Both leaders reiterated their desire to strengthen collaboration across various sectors, identifying enduring friendship as a cornerstone of their nations’ cooperative spirit.
The relationship between Pakistan and China, recognized for its depth and resilience, has been tested by instances of terrorism impacting Chinese nationals working in Pakistan. Pakistan has become a focal point for Chinese infrastructure investments, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to enhance economic connectivity and development in the region. Despite challenges posed by separatist groups in regions such as Baluchistan, both countries emphasize their commitment to continuing their partnership and addressing security concerns proactively. Chinese investments have sparked investments in critical infrastructure, including the Gwadar airport, which serves as a gateway for trade with broader international markets. Such projects are integral to realizing the economic corridor linking Xinjiang in China to the Arabian Sea, fostering trade and promoting investment opportunities. The dynamics of this geopolitical relationship continue to evolve as threats persist, necessitating strong dialogues between both nations.
In conclusion, the statements made by President Zardari during his visit to China underline the resilience of the Pakistan-China friendship amidst ongoing security challenges. The leaders’ commitment to strengthening economic ties and collaboration in various fields, particularly through the development of pivotal infrastructure projects, reflects a mutual determination to navigate challenges together. Their emphasis on enduring partnership is likely to stabilize relations and ensure continued cooperation in the face of adversities.
Original Source: apnews.com
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