ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong has said that Pakistan’s influence on the global stage is steadily increasing, with the country expanding its diplomatic outreach and strengthening its international voice.
In his New Year message released by the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad on Monday, the ambassador praised Pakistan’s progress in economic reforms, counterterrorism efforts, and the promotion of national unity. He said that the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between China and Pakistan continues to flourish, underpinned by frequent high-level exchanges and deep mutual trust.
Highlighting practical cooperation, Ambassador Jiang pointed to the steady advancement of major development projects, including Phase II of the Karakoram Highway, the successful implementation of agricultural training programs for Pakistani youth, and the inauguration of the Gwadar International Airport. He said these initiatives reflect the two countries’ shared commitment to development and people-centered cooperation.
The ambassador also noted that social and cultural exchanges between the two sides are gaining momentum. He cited initiatives such as the Chinese Film Festival in Pakistan and the screening of the animated film Ne Zha 2, which he said are helping to bring the peoples of the two countries closer together.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Jiang expressed optimism about the future of bilateral ties, describing 2026 as a landmark year when Pakistan and China will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. He said the anniversary would provide new impetus for deepening cooperation across all fields.
Referring to recent diplomatic engagements, he recalled that from January 3 to 5, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited China for the seventh round of the China–Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue. During the talks, the two sides exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including defense and security, economic cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges, and agreed to further strengthen strategic communication and deepen mutual trust.
Quoting a Chinese saying, Ambassador Jiang remarked, “Boundless is the ocean where we sail with the wind,” acknowledging the complexities of the current global and regional environment. Despite these challenges, he reaffirmed China’s commitment to working closely with Pakistan to overcome difficulties and advance shared objectives.
Outlining priorities for the year ahead, the ambassador said both countries will focus on developing an upgraded Version 2.0 of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor, expanding the China–Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, and launching more small-scale livelihood projects aimed at improving living standards, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas of Pakistan.
He further said that China will continue to support Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts and strengthen cooperation in education, culture, and youth exchanges. Among the most promising areas of future collaboration, he added, is space cooperation, including the prospect of Pakistan’s first astronaut visiting the Chinese space station—an initiative symbolizing the depth and forward-looking nature of the China–Pakistan partnership.