Islamabad (TDI): President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday underlined the need to further expand Pakistan-China cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people exchanges and public diplomacy.
The president met Li Shulei, Member of the Political Bureau and Secretariat of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Minister of the Publicity Department, in Chengdu. The two sides discussed opportunities to broaden collaboration across multiple sectors.
President Zardari thanked Li for the warm hospitality extended to him in Sichuan and congratulated him and the organizers on the successful Second Golden Panda Awards International Culture Forum, the President’s Secretariat said in a press release.
Li conveyed greetings from President Xi Jinping, recalling his meeting with President Zardari during the latter’s visit earlier this year. He also praised Zardari’s recent article in China Daily, noting the respect given to Pakistan’s perspectives in China.
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He added that both he and President Xi valued Zardari’s role in strengthening bilateral ties, stressing, “The world is changing, but China and Pakistan will remain iron-clad brothers. Today, the world needs and deserves the fragrance of books rather than the smell of gunpowder.”
President Zardari is on a 10-day official visit to China, scheduled from September 12 to 21, at the invitation of the Chinese government.
The agenda of the visit covers a wide range of issues tied to Pakistan–China relations. Discussions will focus on expanding economic and trade partnerships, strengthening collaboration on the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and exploring future connectivity projects. Both sides are also expected to review cooperation at international and regional forums.
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The visit reflects the long-standing tradition of high-level engagement between the two countries. It will serve to reaffirm mutual support on matters of core national interest, deepen economic and trade ties, and emphasize the shared commitment of Pakistan and China to regional peace, stability, and development.
Pakistan and China have consistently described their relationship as “all-weather” and “ironclad.” Over the decades, the two countries have supported each other on issues of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and global standing. This enduring trust has laid a strong foundation for expanding cooperation in new and emerging sectors.
CPEC, regarded as the flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, has further elevated the partnership. With investments in energy, infrastructure, and industrial zones, the initiative is reshaping connectivity and opening fresh avenues for regional economic growth.
In recent years, cooperation has also extended beyond economics, covering defense, security, technology, agriculture, and cultural exchanges. The people-to-people ties, including educational and academic linkages, have helped foster a deeper understanding between the two nations.
President Zardari’s visit is therefore seen as another step forward in reinforcing this strategic partnership. Both Islamabad and Beijing view the strengthening of bilateral ties not only as vital to their national interests but also as a crucial factor in promoting peace and sustainable development across the wider region.
Farkhund Yousafzai is the Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
