ISLAMABAD: The Senate on Wednesday unanimously adopted a resolution commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, reaffirming the two countries’ “iron-clad friendship” and pledging continued support for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The resolution, moved by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, underscored the importance of continued practical partnership with China for shared prosperity, mutual benefit and socio-economic development of the peoples of both countries.

It said the Pakistan-China relationship, built on mutual trust, shared aspirations and commitment to peace and development, had withstood changes in the international environment and remained a source of strength for both nations. It also vowed to carry this extraordinary friendship forward from generation to generation.

The House appreciated China’s support on issues concerning Pakistan’s core interests, including sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. It also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for China on its core concerns, reiterating its commitment to the one-China principle and stating that Taiwan was an inalienable part of Chinese territory.

Passes resolution to mark 75 years of diplomatic ties; Dar says both nations share converging vision on regional, global issues

The resolution noted growing cooperation in political, economic, strategic, educational, cultural and people-to-people fields, and expressed the resolve to mark the anniversary in a befitting manner as a symbol of enduring brotherhood.

A Chinese delegation led by Cai Dafeng, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, witnessed the proceedings.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Dar said Pakistan and China shared a converging vision on regional and global issues and were committed to upholding the UN Charter.

He described CPEC as the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative and a key factor in transforming Pakistan’s economic landscape. He said the next phase, CPEC 2.0, would focus on industrialisation, agriculture, information technology and socio-economic development.

Senator Sherry Rehman, convener of the Pak-China Friendship Group and PPP parliamentary leader in the Senate, described Pakistan-China relations as a “milestone relationship” and a “shining example of mutual respect, sovereign equality and enduring solidarity”, calling the two countries “iron brothers for decades”.

She said the partnership had shown consistency and predictability over time, contributing to regional stability, economic progress and shared goals of peace and development.

Ms Rehman highlighted the historical foundation of ties, noting the PPP’s long association with China since Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

On economic cooperation, she said China was now Pakistan’s largest trading partner and voiced support for moving CPEC into its next phase. She stressed the need to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy, trade, defence cooperation and people-to-people ties.

She called Gwadar Port a future regional hub and welcomed China’s green technology and sustainability initiatives.

She said Pakistan supported inclusive development and constructive international partnerships, and expressed the hope that the visit would deepen parliamentary and strategic collaboration.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with bilateral ties and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in political, economic and cultural fields.

Opposition Leader in the Senate Allama Raja Nasir Abbas called Pakistan-China friendship “of great importance” for peace and stability in the region. He said China had become a powerful global actor and served as a role model for progress and poverty alleviation, noting that millions had been lifted out of poverty there.

He also underlined the importance of CPEC, saying it had linked the two countries and contributed to keeping them connected. He said Pakistan-China friendship had withstood the test of time and remained reliable and strong.

Earlier, welcoming the delegation, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani said the visit reflected the warmth and trust defining bilateral ties.

He expressed the hope that it would open new avenues for parliamentary and strategic cooperation.

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2026