Pakistan and China Mark 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties, Pledge Deeper CPEC Cooperation

On May 21, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar sent felicitations to the peoples of Pakistan and China, noting that the relationship began with mutual respect and has grown into an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. He said the partnership has endured across generations and governments, supported by leaders, businesses, engineers, and ordinary citizens. Dar also thanked Chinese companies and workers for their dedication in Pakistan’s development, highlighting their work under CPEC as a key example of the bilateral friendship. The anniversary was also marked by joint statements from both foreign ministries and a series of cultural exchanges highlighting shared heritage.

The diplomatic link between Pakistan and China has now lasted three-quarters of a century, evolving into a strategic cooperative partnership. CPEC serves as the flagship project of their economic cooperation and is a central component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Over the last ten years, CPEC has transformed Pakistan’s roads, ports, power plants, and industrial zones, altering the country’s energy mix and improving connectivity.

The renewed pledge points to a shift from traditional infrastructure toward industrialization, agricultural modernization, and socio-economic development under the second phase of CPEC. Analysts suggest this could create jobs, boost exports, and ease energy shortages, provided projects are implemented efficiently and debt remains sustainable. Observers will watch how the two governments coordinate financing, address security concerns, and ensure that local communities share in the benefits.

The next steps to monitor include the launch of new special economic zones under CPEC, progress on renewable energy projects such as wind and solar farms, and any adjustments to repayment terms as Pakistan seeks to sustain long-term growth while maintaining the iron-clad brotherhood.