KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has termed the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China a timeless bond that has grown stronger with every passing generation, describing it as a shining example of mutual trust, shared vision and unwavering cooperation.

Addressing an event held in Karachi to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China friendship on Friday evening, he said that the occasion was a matter of immense pride for the PPP, which has played a historic role over three generations in laying the foundations of Pak-China relations and strengthening them further with time.

Mr Bhutto-Zardari paid a glowing tribute to former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for establishing the foundations of the historic relationship alongside Mao Zedong.

He noted that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto had the honour of being the last foreign leader to call on Chairman Mao, adding that the relationship forged during that era has today evolved into a friendship described as higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the deepest oceans and sweeter than honey.

He said that the politics and ideology of the PPP had long drawn inspiration from the political philosophy of the Peoples Republic of China. He recalled that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto often wore the iconic Mao cap during his public campaigns, while the PPP’s political struggle and manifesto reflected principles inspired by Chairman Mao’s politics.

The PPP chief also highlighted the role of slain former PM Benazir Bhutto in carrying forward the tradition of democratic struggle, noting that the politics of long marches adopted by the PPP were inspired by Chairman Mao’s political movement.

He said that friendship with China remains the only aspect of Pakistan’s foreign policy that enjoys complete cross-party consensus across the country’s political spectrum, reflecting the deep-rooted trust and importance of the relationship for the people of Pakistan.

He also paid tribute to President Asif Ali Zardari for his role in laying the foundations of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), particularly through the transfer of Gwadar Port and the initiation of the landmark project.

He said President Zardari ushered Pakistan-China relations into the CPEC era, the benefits of which are now being realized by both nations.

Referring to CPEC 2.0, he expressed optimism that the next phase of cooperation would unlock vast new opportunities for the people and business communities of both countries.

He assured that the Sindh government would play its full role in facilitating deeper cooperation and expanding economic, trade and investment ties between Sindh and China.

First Lady of Pakistan Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2026