Prime Minister highlights importance of bilateral cooperation with China in counter-terrorism and broader regional stability
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. SCREENSHOT
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said the friendship between Pakistan and China was “time-tested and unbreakable”, as the two countries celebrated the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.
Speaking at an event to mark the anniversary, the prime minister called China Pakistan’s most loyal and reliable friend in the world, saying it was a story of sharing each other’s happiness and sorrow, a story of mutual support without political strings and conditions.
“And that is why, from the depths of the seas to the heights of the Himalayas, from the power plants and dams that light and energize our nation to the unwavering support provided in difficult times,” he said.
He added that he had no doubt about continuing this journey and “I believe that in this time-tested relationship, this partnership is also strengthened by common ownership, joint efforts and common sincerity of goals.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz further added that he had the privilege of visiting China and that “every time I visit your country, be it Beijing, Guangzhou or other parts of China, I discover new cities, new industries and millions of Chinese people enjoying life through hard work and untiring efforts.”
“And this is the result of President Xi Jinping’s vision. Under his wise leadership, China has successfully lifted about 800 million people out of poverty,” the premier said.
The Prime Minister added that today, in terms of economic prowess and military might, China is second to none. “The world without China cannot move forward,” he said.
He pointed out that last year he announced sending 1,000 Pakistani agriculture graduates, both boys and girls, for modern training in China.
“I am very grateful to Ambassador Jiang and the Chinese leadership for agreeing to our request. These great sons and daughters of Pakistan received excellent training in various Chinese universities, and now they have returned to work in research and development centers, engaging in the promotion of agriculture in Pakistan,” he said.
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