Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Sinologist – Diplomat – Advisor - Consultant,Founding Chair, Global Silk Route research Alliance.(E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).
The 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China offered Pakistan an opportunity to celebrate not only China’s remarkable transformation but also a friendship that has grown stronger through 75 years of diplomatic relations. The National Day of China, observed on October 1, was celebrated with enthusiasm across China and around the world, including Pakistan, where the occasion reflected the warmth and depth of this enduring partnership.
A significant reception was hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad on September 30, 2026, bringing together Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, senior Pakistani officials, diplomats, members of the Chinese community and friends of China. The presence of the prime minister, who attended shortly after returning from a foreign visit, demonstrated the importance Pakistan attaches to its relationship with China.
Addressing the gathering, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong highlighted China’s extraordinary achievements, its commitment to international cooperation and the expanding scope of bilateral relations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in turn, praised China’s development, acknowledged its contribution to global peace and stability, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to strengthen the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.
China’s transformation: Lessons for the developing world
Since 1949, China has undergone a profound transformation. Its achievements in poverty reduction, infrastructure, manufacturing, science and technology have reshaped its economy and improved the lives of millions. The country’s development experience demonstrates the importance of long-term planning, investment in human capital, technological advancement and consistent policy implementation.
Ambassador Jiang reported that China’s economy grew by 4.7 percent in the first half of 2026, adding 3.6 trillion yuan in economic output. Renewable energy accounted for 41.2 percent of electricity generation during the same period, reflecting progress towards a more sustainable energy system.
China is also advancing in electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, solar technology, artificial intelligence and robotics. Exports of electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and photovoltaic products reached approximately 819.7 billion yuan in the first half of the year, registering 46.1 percent year-on-year growth.
These developments offer valuable lessons for Pakistan, particularly in industrial modernization, renewable energy, agricultural productivity, research and development, and digital transformation.
China’s international initiatives also deserve attention. The Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative and Global Governance Initiative seek to encourage development, dialogue, cooperation and a more inclusive international order. For developing countries, these platforms provide opportunities to engage in discussions about shared challenges and common priorities.
Pakistan–China relations: From friendship to practical cooperation
Pakistan and China are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. Over these decades, the partnership has expanded across diplomacy, defence, infrastructure, education, trade and cultural exchanges. As Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized, China’s transformation continues to inspire Pakistan, while the bilateral relationship remains an anchor of Pakistan’s foreign policy.
The economic figures presented by Ambassador Jiang underline the growing importance of this relationship. Bilateral trade reached $16.44 billion between January and July 2026, an increase of 13.4 percent year-on-year. Agricultural trade approached $830 million during January–August, rising by 45 percent. Pakistan’s agricultural exports to China, particularly rice, also recorded substantial growth.
These figures are encouraging, but the next objective should be to make bilateral trade more balanced, productive and diversified. Pakistani businesses need stronger access to Chinese markets, improved export standards, modern processing facilities and closer links with Chinese companies and distribution networks.
The next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, known as CPEC 2.0, offers an important opportunity. Its emphasis on industrialization, special economic zones, information technology, artificial intelligence, agriculture and minerals could help Pakistan move beyond infrastructure development towards greater productive capacity, employment and export growth.
The prime minister also highlighted agricultural cooperation. The first group of 1,000 Pakistani agricultural graduates has completed training in China, while another 1,000 are preparing to follow. Such initiatives can help Pakistan modernize farming, improve water management, introduce advanced technologies and strengthen food security.
Equally significant are the planned livelihood projects in Balochistan, including 100 clean-water stations, 1,000 upgraded smart classrooms and 100,000 school kits. If implemented effectively, these initiatives can demonstrate how strategic cooperation translates into tangible improvements in people's lives.
A shared future built on people
The celebrations extended beyond official speeches. Chinese companies operating in Pakistan organized activities and welcomed their employees and Pakistani friends, creating opportunities for cultural exchange, hospitality and mutual understanding. These interactions remind us that international relations are sustained not only by governments and agreements but also by ordinary people who build trust through everyday contact.
As a Pakistani who has studied, worked and developed enduring personal connections in China, I believe that our friendship carries immense potential. Pakistan can learn from China’s emphasis on education, discipline, innovation and long-term development while contributing its own strengths, resources, talent and strategic location.
The real measure of this partnership will be the opportunities it creates for young people, the industries it helps establish, the exports it generates and the quality of life it improves.
On China’s 77th National Day, Pakistan extends its warm congratulations to the Chinese leadership and people. May China continue to prosper, and may the friendship between our two neighbouring countries grow stronger with every passing year. Our shared future should be built on mutual respect, practical cooperation and a common commitment to peace, development and prosperity.
(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY）