PM: Pak-China friendship ‘time-tested, unbreakable’

Shehbaz hails China’s steadfast support for Pakistan; Addresses Pak-China diplomatic ties ceremony, reaffirms Islamabad’s support for One China policy Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said China has consistently stood with Pakistan with steadfast support through thick and thin, adding that the friendship between the two countries has grown stronger over time. “China has stood like a rock with Pakistan in every difficult time,” said PM Shehbaz as he was addressing a ceremony in Islamabad held on Thursday to mark the 75th anniversary of Pakistan—China diplomatic relations. Addressing the ceremony, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan was the first Islamic country to recognise China, adding that the event celebrating Chinese friendship was a source of great joy. The prime minister described Pakistan–China friendship as a unique example in the world which had stood the test of time. “Pakistan fully supports the One China policy without any fear,” he said and noted that China had provided exceptional support during floods and other natural disasters. He went on to say that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor was important for Pakistan’s economy and employment generation. PM Shehbaz said that China had lifted 800 million people out of poverty, describing its economic and military leadership as an example for the world. The prime minister recalled announcing last year that 1,000 students would be sent to China, thanking Beijing for turning the initiative into reality. He said that cooperation against terrorism was being further strengthened, adding that every Chinese citizen in Pakistan was being provided with the best security. On Middle East tensions, the prime minister said Pakistan was playing a central role in efforts to resolve the US-Iran conflict, adding that China had supported Pakistan’s mediation efforts. Speaking at the ceremony, President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated the leadership and people of China, especially President Xi Jinping, on the completion of 75 years of dipl