Pakistan and China reach new consensus to deepen strategic partnership

Pakistan and China have issued a joint statement after the conclusion of the Pakistani Prime Minister’s visit to China, announcing further expansion in bilateral cooperation and strategic relations.

According to the joint declaration, both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense, security, and counter-terrorism. The two sides also agreed to establish a “China-Pakistan Security Partnership” to promote regional peace and stability.

China reaffirmed its strong support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity. Both countries also agreed to speed up work on CPEC 2.0 and enhance regional connectivity through Gwadar and the Khunjerab Corridor.

Pakistan and China further agreed to increase cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital economy, space technology, and other advanced sectors. The statement also mentioned the possibility of a Pakistani astronaut joining the Chinese space station after training in China.

The two countries announced plans to expand cooperation in minerals, energy, industrial parks, and agriculture. China also reaffirmed its commitment to provide 3,000 training opportunities for Pakistan between 2025 and 2029.

China appreciated Pakistan’s economic recovery efforts and praised the “Uraan Pakistan” programme.

The joint statement stressed the importance of dialogue for resolving disputes and maintaining peace in South Asia. China once again supported the resolution of the Kashmir issue according to United Nations resolutions and described it as a historical dispute.

China also appreciated Pakistan’s role at the United Nations Security Council and its support for multilateral diplomacy.

The statement further praised Pakistan’s role in helping facilitate a ceasefire between Iran and the United States through the “Islamabad talks.”

Pakistan and China agreed to continue working together for peace and stability in the Middle East. Progress in trilateral cooperation among China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan was also highlighted, with both sides taking a clear stance against militant groups including TTP and ETIM.

The joint declaration also opposed double standards on terrorism and supported greater international cooperation. Both countries reaffirmed support for a multipolar world and opposed unilateral actions in global affairs.

Pakistan also repeated its full support for the One China Policy and recognized Taiwan as part of China.

Experts say the latest declaration shows that Pakistan-China relations are moving beyond historical friendship and becoming a modern, future-focused partnership based on technology, development, and strategic cooperation.