Islamabad, August 21, 2025: Pakistan and China on Thursday reiterated their firm commitment to advancing the “upgraded” China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), vowing to transform it into a corridor of growth, livelihood, green development, and openness.
The resolve was expressed during the 6th Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Islamabad. The two sides reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, discussed regional and global developments, and exchanged views on enhanced cooperation in trade, economy, multilateral platforms, and people-to-people ties.
At a joint press stakeout, Senator Dar said Pakistan and China enjoy complete unanimity on major bilateral, regional, and international matters. “We are heartened by Foreign Minister Yi’s vision for advancing our cooperation, particularly the upgrade of CPEC into its next phase,” he said.
Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s economic development, describing CPEC as the “cornerstone” of bilateral strategic partnership. He announced that the upgraded corridor will prioritize industrial, agricultural, and mining cooperation, while also supporting Gwadar Port development, the Karakoram Highway realignment, and third-party participation in the ML-1 railway project.
“China will work with Pakistan to enhance its capacity for self-sustained growth and improve the welfare of its people,” Wang added. He also assured immediate emergency humanitarian assistance for Pakistan in the wake of recent heavy rains.
Dar highlighted that the strategic dialogue followed the recent Pakistan-China-Afghanistan Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Kabul, reflecting the countries’ collective resolve for regional peace and prosperity. He expressed gratitude to China for its consistent support in safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity.
Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination at multilateral forums, particularly at the UN Security Council, where Pakistan is serving a two-year term as a non-permanent member. Preparations were also discussed for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s forthcoming visit to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit.
Next year, the two countries will mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with a series of commemorative events. “China warmly welcomes Prime Minister Shehbaz to China and will ensure the success of the anniversary activities,” Wang said.
He also praised Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, expressing confidence in its ability to safeguard the security of Chinese personnel and institutions in the country. On a question about regional dynamics, he clarified that China’s ties with India are not targeted at any third party.
Reiterating Pakistan’s foreign policy stance, Dar said: “Our policy remains rooted in building friendly ties with all nations on the basis of shared values, mutual respect, and equality. China remains the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy.”
