Islamabad: China and Pakistan conducted their sixth round of strategic dialogue in Islamabad, emphasizing the "significant" role of their bilateral ties in ensuring regional peace and stability. Both nations acknowledged the indispensable nature of their relationship in fostering progress and prosperity, as outlined in a statement from Pakistan's Foreign Ministry.
According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar led their respective delegations during the talks. They reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, as well as regional and global issues. The discussions included an "in-depth" exchange on various aspects of bilateral cooperation, such as the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, trade, investment, multilateral cooperation, and people-to-people ties.
Both countries agreed to maintain close coordination on bilateral fronts and within international forums. During a joint news conference with Dar, Wang asserted that the partnership between Beijing and Islamabad is 'unbreakable' and is crucial for both governments, as well as for maintaining regional peace and stability. He commended Pakistan's efforts in combating terrorism and expressed confidence in Islamabad's ability to safeguard Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions within the country.
Wang noted that the two sides had reached agreements on nearly all issues, highlighting China's support for resolving South Asian disputes through dialogue and consultation. Dar echoed these sentiments, advocating for resolving outstanding issues through sincere and concerted efforts in accordance with international law and established norms of interstate relations.
Dar further extended Pakistan's support to China on core concerns, expressing gratitude for China's steadfast support in safeguarding Pakistan's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity.
Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1950, China and Pakistan have maintained an 'all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.' China has emerged as Pakistan's largest arms supplier, and their bilateral trade volume exceeded $23 billion in 2024. A key component of their relationship is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a $62-billion infrastructure project linking China's Xinjiang province with Pakistan's Gwadar port.
In a trilateral meeting in Kabul with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, Wang and Dar agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, further enhancing their collaborative efforts in the region.