Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist, Diplomat, Editor, Analyst, Advisor, Consultant, Researcher at Global South Economic and Trade Cooperation Research Center, and Non-Resident Fellow of CCG. (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).

The recent official visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Mr. Wang Yi to Pakistan has come at a defining moment for the region and the wider world. His engagements carried not only diplomatic symbolism but also deep strategic weight, reflecting the enduring bond between Pakistan and China while underscoring Beijing’s growing role as a constructive power in South Asia. Importantly, his visit followed significant stops in India and Afghanistan—two countries with which Pakistan’s relations have often been uneasy. Taken together, these visits present a larger picture of China’s balancing role in the region, one aimed at fostering stability, connectivity, and mutual respect.

Highlights of the Visit

In Islamabad, Mr. Wang Yi was received with warmth that reflects the long-standing “iron brotherhood” between Pakistan and China. His meetings with the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and senior leadership highlighted several key themes:

Deepening Strategic Cooperation – Both sides reaffirmed that the “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” is not only intact but is growing stronger in today’s complex geopolitical environment. The visit reaffirmed mutual trust and underlined that Pakistan-China ties transcend governments and political cycles.

Economic and Developmental Cooperation – A central feature of discussions was the progress and expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Both sides agreed on the need to accelerate high-quality development of CPEC, including energy, transport, digital economy, and industrial cooperation, while also emphasizing employment generation and livelihood improvement for ordinary Pakistanis.

Regional Stability and Counterterrorism – Pakistan and China expressed a shared commitment to regional peace and security. China reiterated support for Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism, safeguard its sovereignty, and maintain internal stability.

Global Cooperation and Multilateralism – Both countries highlighted the need for fairness in global governance and voiced support for the Global Development Initiative (GDI) and the Global Security Initiative (GSI), reflecting shared values of inclusivity, sovereignty, and mutual benefit.

People-to-People and Cultural Links – The visit also touched on strengthening cultural exchanges, academic cooperation, and people-to-people ties, vital for sustaining long-term goodwill between the two nations.

The Significance of His Earlier Stops: India and Afghanistan

The timing and sequencing of Mr. Wang Yi’s regional tour are worth deeper reflection. Before arriving in Islamabad, he traveled to India and Afghanistan—both countries with which Pakistan’s relations have been strained.

In India, his discussions focused on managing border disputes, reviving economic engagement, and exploring areas of cooperation amidst tensions. While Pakistan has its differences with India, China’s outreach to New Delhi serves a wider purpose: to prevent escalation, reduce mistrust, and preserve regional stability. Importantly, China’s engagement with India does not diminish its friendship with Pakistan; rather, it highlights Beijing’s ability to play a balancing role in South Asia. For Pakistan, a reduction in India-China tensions creates an environment where trilateral and multilateral cooperation could eventually be explored, especially under frameworks like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

In Afghanistan, Mr. Wang Yi underscored China’s readiness to support the Afghan people in reconstruction and development. Stability in Afghanistan is crucial for Pakistan, and China’s engagement helps ease Pakistan’s burden as a frontline neighbor. China’s economic support and political outreach can complement Pakistan’s own efforts for peace, counterterrorism, and connectivity in Afghanistan. For Islamabad, a stable Afghanistan is not only a security imperative but also a vital link for regional connectivity projects that can link South Asia with Central Asia.

Thus, China’s prior visits to India and Afghanistan, far from being a cause of concern, should be viewed as complementary to Pakistan’s own aspirations for peace and stability in the region.

Major Achievements of the Visit to Pakistan

The tangible outcomes of Mr. Wang Yi’s Pakistan visit reflect progress on multiple fronts:

CPEC Phase II Acceleration – Both sides agreed to fast-track industrial cooperation zones, renewable energy projects, and digital connectivity. This is a step forward in transforming CPEC into a corridor not only of infrastructure but also of innovation and livelihoods.

Security Cooperation – China reassured Pakistan of continued support in strengthening counterterrorism capacity and protecting CPEC projects. Pakistan, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the security of Chinese nationals and investments.

Trade and Investment Expansion – Agreements were reached to encourage more Chinese investment in Pakistan’s agriculture, mining, and technology sectors. Efforts to balance trade by increasing Pakistani exports to China were also emphasized.

Strategic Alignment on Global Issues – Both countries reiterated their support for a multipolar world order, inclusive globalization, and peaceful resolution of disputes. They opposed unilateralism and underscored respect for sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs.

Human Development and People-Centered Cooperation – Initiatives were discussed for vocational training, scholarships, and cultural exchanges to enhance the long-term benefits of the partnership for the youth of Pakistan.

China’s Positive Role in the Region

The visit underscores China’s role as a bridge-builder in South Asia. In a region marked by historical rivalries and mutual suspicions, China’s approach is distinct: it seeks common ground, promotes dialogue, and offers economic cooperation as a foundation for stability.

In relation to India-Pakistan dynamics, China encourages both sides to avoid confrontation and instead focus on cooperation through multilateral frameworks.

Regarding Afghanistan, China and Pakistan share a vision of a peaceful and stable country integrated into regional economic networks. China’s investments in Afghanistan can complement Pakistan’s vision of a connected region under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Globally, China’s emphasis on development, security, and dialogue resonates with Pakistan’s own foreign policy goals of peace, inclusivity, and multilateralism.

Pakistani and Chinese Narratives

Both Pakistan and China project their relationship not as a tactical alliance, but as a deep-rooted partnership built on trust, respect, and mutual benefit.

Pakistan’s Narrative – Islamabad emphasizes that its partnership with Beijing is a cornerstone of its foreign policy. CPEC is viewed as the engine for economic transformation, while Chinese diplomatic support on global forums provides Pakistan with strength and confidence.

China’s Narrative – Beijing presents Pakistan as an “all-weather strategic cooperative partner,” a country that has consistently stood by China during critical junctures. China sees Pakistan not merely as a neighbor but as a close friend with shared aspirations for peace and prosperity.

Both narratives converge on the principles of equality, sovereignty, and development, reinforcing the positive image of their partnership.

Regional and Global Implications

Mr. Wang Yi’s visit carries broader regional and global implications that extend beyond bilateral relations:

Stability in South Asia – China’s proactive diplomacy with India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan underscores a constructive attempt to reduce tensions and foster dialogue. This benefits not only the region but also the international community.

Connectivity and Trade – The emphasis on CPEC and BRI aligns with global calls for sustainable development and inclusive globalization. By linking South Asia with Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, CPEC becomes a platform for shared growth.

Counterterrorism and Security – Strengthening Pakistan’s capacity against terrorism contributes to regional and global security. The safety of Chinese projects and personnel is not only a bilateral concern but also a symbol of resilience against destabilizing forces.

Multipolarity in Global Governance – The alignment of Pakistan and China on issues of global governance reflects a broader shift toward multipolarity, inclusivity, and fairness in international relations.

Hope for Afghanistan – China’s engagement with Afghanistan, supported by Pakistan, can create pathways for reconstruction, integration, and peace in a country long marred by conflict. This has direct implications for regional stability.

A Visit of Strategic Optimism

Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Pakistan has once again highlighted the strength of Pakistan-China relations. It reaffirmed that their partnership is more than a diplomatic slogan—it is a living reality of mutual trust, respect, and benefit. The visit also demonstrated China’s constructive approach to regional diplomacy by engaging India and Afghanistan before arriving in Pakistan. Far from undermining Pakistan’s interests, these visits underscore Beijing’s commitment to stability and balance in South Asia.

For Pakistan, the outcomes of this visit promise tangible economic, strategic, and developmental benefits. For China, the reaffirmation of its partnership with Pakistan strengthens its role as a responsible global power. For the region, the visit carries hope—that dialogue, cooperation, and connectivity can gradually replace conflict and mistrust.

At a time of uncertainty in world politics, the message from Islamabad was clear: Pakistan and China remain steadfast partners, united in their vision for peace, prosperity, and a shared future.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)