A Journey of Friendship and Cooperation
President Asif Ali Zardari’s recent visit to China was a significant event in the history of China-Pakistan relations. From September 12th to 21st, he attended the opening ceremony of the 2025 Golden Panda International Cultural Forum and made visits to Sichuan Province, Shanghai Municipality, and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. This marked his second visit to China following a state visit in February this year, highlighting the deep affection he holds for the Chinese people and the importance he places on bilateral ties.
During his journey, President Zardari visited three provincial-level administrative regions, four destinations, met with local government heads, and engaged with ordinary citizens. His trip added new chapters to the legendary China-Pakistan friendship, advanced practical cooperation, and deepened the bond between the two peoples.
A Journey of Civilization and Innovation
At the opening ceremony of the 2025 Golden Panda International Cultural Forum in Chengdu, President Zardari delivered a speech emphasizing the forum’s role in bridging divides through the universal language of art. He highlighted its alignment with the Global Civilization Initiative, which promotes diversity, equality, and cultural dialogue. These efforts reflect the aspirations of both nations to deepen cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.
The interactions between China and Pakistan have been heartwarming. Films like BaTie Girl have graced screens in both countries, while the Gandhara Art Exhibition debuted at the Palace Museum in China. Pakistani mangoes gained popularity among Chinese netizens, and the “Tea for Harmony” cultural activity became popular in Pakistan. Universities in China now offer Urdu programs, and a “Study-in-China” fever is sweeping through Pakistan. The CPEC Consortium of Universities, with over 130 members, was established, and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari had an encounter with giant pandas in Chengdu.
A Journey of Enlightenment and Collaboration
During his visit to the Memorial Hall of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Shanghai, President Zardari expressed gratitude for the CPC’s historical role in China’s rise. He noted the achievements under President Xi Jinping’s leadership and the rapid development of China-Pakistan friendship. The CPC’s dedication to the happiness of the Chinese people and the rejuvenation of the nation has been a cornerstone of its success.
China and Pakistan are at critical stages of development, aiming to fulfill their people’s aspirations for a better life. China is willing to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, draw wisdom from each other’s journeys, and work together toward modernization.
In Shanghai, President Zardari experienced the city’s vibrant energy. He visited the Shanghai Electric Group and witnessed the signing of cooperation documents. Shanghai plays a pivotal role in China-Pakistan cooperation, with the annual China International Import Expo (CIIE) attracting Pakistani enterprises. Shanghai Electric’s investment in the Thar Engro Coal Power Project has contributed to Pakistan’s energy security and local employment.
A Journey of Friendship and Testimony
The final stop of President Zardari’s visit was Xinjiang, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. He toured Urumqi and Kashgar, engaging with local Muslims and witnessing the unity of ethnic groups. He visited the Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar and the Kashgar Comprehensive Bonded Zone, observing cooperative links connecting Xinjiang with neighboring regions.
President Zardari shared his sentiments about Xinjiang’s development, encouraging more people in Pakistan to visit and deepen the friendship between the two countries. Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC, Xinjiang has achieved remarkable progress, with GDP surpassing 2 trillion RMB and public satisfaction reaching 99.42%.
China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners, and their time-honored friendship is a precious asset. President Zardari’s journey across mountains and seas to his “home away from home” has added a new chapter to their iron-clad friendship.
China is committed to working with Pakistan to implement the outcomes of President Zardari’s visit, advance the Action Plan to Foster an Even Closer China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future, and contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind.
