Pakistan's leader vows unbreakable friendship with China despite attacks
- President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the strong friendship between Pakistan and China, stating it has persisted through various challenges.
- During his visit, he reassured that terrorist attacks would not sever the bonds between the two countries.
- Both nations are committed to advancing their cooperation and economic ties despite the threats posed by extremist incidents.
Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari made a significant statement during his recent visit to China, emphasizing that the friendship between Pakistan and China remains strong despite challenges. The visit marked an important diplomatic engagement where Zardari opened talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, highlighting the historical ties between the two nations. Zardari underlined that their relationship has faced numerous ups and downs, particularly due to extremist attacks that have targeted Chinese nationals working in Pakistan. These attacks have raised concerns in China about the safety of its citizens engaged in various infrastructure projects, including those related to the Belt and Road Initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative has been a cornerstone of China's foreign policy, aiming to enhance trade routes and strengthen ties across the globe. Thousands of Chinese workers are involved in projects within Pakistan as part of this initiative. However, several attacks have led to casualties, including the death of seven Chinese nationals in separate incidents last year, instigating alarm among Chinese authorities and citizens. In his remarks, Zardari asserted that regardless of the terrorist threats that may arise, he and the people of Pakistan will stand united with the Chinese people. Zardari's four-day visit also included participation in the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, reflecting the broader cultural and diplomatic engagements between the two countries. At the same time, Chinese leader Xi Jinping reaffirmed the durability of Sino-Pakistani relations, emphasizing the collaborative efforts in modernization and economic development. Both leaders discussed the ongoing construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which is vital for economic growth in the region. The economic corridor connects the western Chinese region of Xinjiang with the Arabian Sea through various infrastructure projects in Pakistan, including a major $230 million airport that recently started operations in Gwadar. This airport is part of a larger strategic plan to facilitate trade but has faced delays due to rising incidents of violence in the region, particularly attacks on various groups targeting Chinese workers. The commitment by both nations to combat these external threats and strengthen their partnership highlights the significance of Sino-Pakistani ties and their collective advancement on the path of modernization.