Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren announced that the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project is set to commence soon, which is expected to bring prosperity to the region. This statement was made during a national conference titled ’73 Years of Pak-China Diplomatic Relations: Achievements and Way Forward,’ organized by Punjab University’s School of Communication Studies at Hameed Nizami Hall.
In his address, Zhao Shiren reiterated China’s ongoing support for Pakistan in defense and national security issues. He expressed optimism that Pakistan would soon become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. He also mentioned that Federal Minister of Pakistan Prof Ahsan Iqbal is scheduled to visit China soon to engage with Chinese authorities and investors, aiming to attract investment into Pakistan. Furthermore, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif is planning a significant visit to China at the beginning of June.
Zhao highlighted the cooperation between China and Pakistan in sectors such as mining, IT, and energy. He recalled that Pakistan was the first Muslim-majority country to recognize China’s independent status in 1951, a gesture deeply appreciated by the Chinese nation. Over the past 73 years, a strong relationship of trust has developed between the governments and peoples of both countries.
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The consul general assured continued cooperation with the Punjab government to promote educational, economic, and cultural relations. Dr. Noshina Saleem praised China’s significant role in Pakistan’s socio-economic development, reflecting the deep, generational friendship between the two nations. She also noted China’s consistent support for Pakistan on international issues, including the Kashmir conflict.
Kashif Anwar commended China’s contributions to Pakistan’s development, describing CPEC as a transformative project that will create numerous opportunities for trade, investment, and employment. Dr. Mahmoodul Hassan emphasized that CPEC and the One Belt One Road initiative will further strengthen bilateral relations and stabilize the economy, noting the increase in exports between the two countries over the past 27 years. Dr. Mian Hanan described the CPEC Corridor project as a gift to the region’s people, marking the beginning of a new chapter of prosperity.
The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony celebrating 73 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China.
