BEIJING — During a recent meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the resilient bond between their two nations, despite facing challenges from extremist attacks that have impacted Chinese citizens. He affirmed that the friendship between Pakistan and China remains unwavering, stating, “No matter how many terrors or issues arise globally, I, along with the people of Pakistan, will stand by the people of China.”
President Zardari’s comments came as he initiated discussions in China, where thousands of Chinese nationals are engaged in various infrastructure projects as part of the ambitious Belt and Road Initiative. This initiative aims to enhance trade routes and strengthen China’s global connections. However, it has also made Chinese workers targets of hostility, with incidents in recent years leading to significant casualties, including the deaths of seven Chinese individuals last year due to separate attacks that heightened concerns in Beijing.
Zardari is on a four-day visit to China, which includes attending the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in the frigid northeastern city of Harbin. He expressed that several adversarial forces seek to disrupt the harmonious relationship between Pakistan and China by attacking “Chinese brothers.”
In response, Xi underlined the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries, highlighting their collaborative efforts in developing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and other cooperative projects. The newly opened $230 million airport in Gwadar, financed by Chinese investments, represents a significant milestone for Pakistan and is now the country’s largest airport. However, it has faced setbacks due to a wave of attacks in the Baluchistan province, known for its separatist activities targeting various sectors, including Chinese interests.
The Gwadar port, a key terminal in the proposed economic corridor, is set to connect the western Chinese province of Xinjiang with the Arabian Sea, facilitating greater trade and economic integration. Xi expressed China’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Pakistan, stating that they are ready to work closely to advance their modernization efforts.
Operations at the new airport were postponed from the previous year due to escalating violence in the region. The ongoing collaboration between Pakistan and China reflects a shared determination to overcome challenges and fortify their longstanding partnership.
