President Asif Ali Zardari has returned home after his important and successful visit to China, a visit that is being seen as a major step forward in strengthening the historic friendship between Pakistan and China. This visit carried special importance because of the current regional situation, the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and the shared commitment of both countries to deepen their partnership.
- The author Anum Malik, is affiliated with the State News Agency and contributes her research to the think tank, CDS.
- *The views and opinions expressed herein, and any references, are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of the Centre for Development and Stability (CDS).
During his stay in China, President Zardari visited several key cities including Chengdu, Shanghai, Urumqi, and Kashgar. These visits were not only symbolic but also practical, as they gave him the chance to meet provincial leadership and review development work directly in those regions. His discussions with the provincial leaders touched on important matters such as enhancing bilateral cooperation, speeding up the pace of CPEC projects, and exploring new future trade and connectivity corridors. Each meeting added another layer of trust and collaboration between the two sides.
The President’s trip was not limited to development talks but also extended to the larger picture of peace and security in the region. In his conversations with the Chinese leadership, he stressed the importance of working together for regional peace and development. Pakistan and China both face common challenges, and it is through their close cooperation that they aim to secure stability, not just for themselves but for the entire region. The fact that China and Pakistan have always supported each other in testing times makes this partnership even stronger, and the visit by President Zardari once again showed the depth of this bond.
One of the most significant achievements of this visit was the signing of several important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements cover areas of trade, investment, and infrastructure and are expected to become milestones in the long history of Pakistan-China relations. The MoUs are not just pieces of paper but commitments that reflect the shared vision of both countries to move forward with cooperation, development, and mutual benefit. For Pakistan, these agreements mean opportunities for investment, technology transfer, and enhanced connectivity. For China, they mean continued access to a trusted partner in South Asia, a partner that stands firmly by its side.
The President’s visit also highlighted the importance of the CPEC projects. These projects are not just roads, ports, or power plants but are lifelines for Pakistan’s economy and a gateway to prosperity. By reviewing their progress in detail, President Zardari made it clear that Pakistan attaches the highest importance to CPEC and is determined to ensure its timely completion. He also discussed the idea of new corridors and routes that can further improve connectivity, not just between Pakistan and China but also with the broader region. This vision is in line with Pakistan’s long-term aim to become a hub of trade and transit in Asia.
Earlier, at the conclusion of his engagements, President Zardari departed from Kashgar’s Kashi Lanning International Airport. The farewell ceremony was another symbol of the respect and warmth that China extends towards Pakistan’s leadership. He was seen off by Kashgar’s Party Secretary and Xinjiang’s Vice Governor Ni Zhuang. The presence of both the Pakistani and Chinese ambassadors at the occasion further highlighted the diplomatic importance of this visit. Such gestures show the closeness of relations that go beyond formalities and have a true element of friendship and brotherhood.
Before leaving China, President Zardari expressed deep gratitude to the Chinese leadership and the people for their generous hospitality. He particularly admired the progress being made in China, especially in Xinjiang under the vision of President Xi Jinping. He described this development as both commendable and inspiring, noting how China has transformed its western regions into centers of growth and opportunity. For Pakistan, Xinjiang is of special importance because of its direct connectivity with the northern areas of Pakistan. The development in Xinjiang means new possibilities for cross-border trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
President Zardari also shared his hope that in the near future, the people of Pakistan and China will be able to travel more easily and directly through land routes. Such travel will not only make tourism convenient but will also boost trade and business exchanges between ordinary citizens. Land routes between Pakistan and China have always carried historical significance, as they connect civilizations and cultures. By making them more accessible, both countries can bring their peoples closer together, building not only state-to-state ties but also people-to-people bonds.
This visit has been widely seen as a reaffirmation of the strong strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. It is important to understand that this partnership is not new. It has been built over decades of trust, mutual respect, and shared goals. From defense to economy, from diplomacy to culture, Pakistan and China have stood shoulder to shoulder. President Zardari’s visit has given new energy to this time-tested friendship, assuring both nations that their relationship will continue to flourish.
For Pakistan, the importance of China cannot be overstated. At a time when the country faces economic challenges, regional tensions, and global uncertainties, the friendship with China offers a solid foundation for stability. China has consistently supported Pakistan, whether in times of natural disaster, economic difficulties, or diplomatic challenges. The signing of fresh MoUs, the progress on CPEC, and the vision for future corridors all serve as proof that China remains a dependable friend of Pakistan.
For China too, Pakistan holds immense importance. Pakistan provides China with access to the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean through Gwadar Port. The geographic location of Pakistan makes it a central partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Beyond geography, the strong trust and loyalty between the two nations make Pakistan unique for China. Unlike many other countries, Pakistan has never let political shifts or international pressures weaken its relationship with China. This reliability makes the Pakistan-China partnership one of the strongest in international relations.
The success of President Zardari’s visit can also be judged by the message it sent to the region and the world. At a time when global powers are competing for influence, Pakistan has once again reaffirmed its commitment to China. This sends a clear signal that Pakistan values its friendship with China above all, and is ready to continue working closely to achieve shared goals. It also signals to the people of Pakistan that their leadership is serious about economic growth and stability, which cannot be achieved without international partnerships like the one with China.
Another key point of the visit is the focus on development in Xinjiang. Pakistan shares a border with this region, and its prosperity has direct benefits for Pakistan’s northern areas. By connecting roads, trade routes, and energy pipelines through Xinjiang, Pakistan can bring more opportunities to Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This cross-border development can uplift local economies, provide jobs, and open new markets for Pakistani products. Similarly, Pakistani students, traders, and tourists will have new opportunities to engage with Chinese society directly.
Looking ahead, this visit sets the stage for greater cooperation in multiple fields. Trade will be a big area of focus, with both sides working on reducing barriers and making business easier. Tourism will also be promoted, as both governments realize the cultural and economic benefits of people-to-people exchanges. Connectivity will continue to be improved through road, rail, and digital projects. Energy cooperation will remain central, ensuring that Pakistan can meet its growing needs with the help of Chinese investment and expertise.
At the heart of all these efforts is the trust and goodwill between the two nations. President Zardari’s visit has shown once again that the Pakistan-China relationship is more than just a diplomatic formality. It is a relationship rooted in shared dreams, shared struggles, and shared victories. It is a bond that has been tested in time and has only grown stronger.
As President Zardari returns home, his visit leaves behind a message of hope, commitment, and friendship. It tells the people of Pakistan that their country has a strong partner in China. It tells the people of China that Pakistan values their friendship deeply. And it tells the world that Pakistan and China will continue to march forward together, building a future of peace, development, and prosperity for their people.
