Pakistani and Chinese officials marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries at a ceremony in Karachi, reaffirming support for deeper economic and strategic cooperation, including the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The event was attended by senior political leaders, diplomats, business executives and military officials from both countries, according to a Gwadar Pro's report.

Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the Pakistan-China relationship had remained resilient through regional and global challenges and described the two countries as “iron brothers.”

Bilawal said the next phase of CPEC, commonly referred to as CPEC 2.0, would focus on industrial cooperation, technology transfer, innovation and special economic zones.

He also highlighted the role of Sindh and Karachi in future trade, investment and connectivity projects involving China.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said the relationship between Islamabad and Beijing remained one of Pakistan’s strongest diplomatic partnerships and noted ongoing Chinese investment in transport, energy, industrial and infrastructure projects in Sindh.

In a video message, the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan described the two countries as “all-weather strategic cooperative partners” and said the second phase of CPEC would place greater emphasis on industrialization, advanced manufacturing and economic modernization.

The ceremony concluded with cultural performances and statements supporting continued bilateral cooperation in trade, regional connectivity and economic development.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China