Bilateral Trade Hits $19.08 Billion as Agro-Ecology Gains Significance in CPEC, Says Ambassador Naghmana Hashmi

Pakistan's Ambassador to China, Naghmana Hashmi, recently highlighted the robust bilateral trade relationship between Pakistan and China, with the trade volume reaching a significant milestone at US$ 19.08 billion. This achievement marks a joint commitment to further enhance this economic partnership.

One notable outcome of this collaboration is the successful joint ventures in defense production, resulting in the development of cutting-edge military equipment like the MBT 2000 Al-Khalid Tank and JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft. Beyond defense, the cooperation extends to various sectors, including science, technology, and peaceful nuclear endeavors, all underpinned by a dedication to multilateralism and the United Nations Charter.

Historically, Pakistan and China share deep cultural and knowledge ties, dating back over a thousand years when Chinese monks such as Fa Xian and Xuan Zang traveled to South Asia (now Pakistan) in pursuit of Buddhist knowledge. Even in the modern era, around 28,000 Pakistani students are pursuing education in China, while Chinese students equally engage in Pakistan's educational institutions.

Remarkably, people-to-people interactions and cultural exchanges have flourished, showcasing harmony and peaceful coexistence despite differences in political systems and cultural backgrounds.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a modern revival of the ancient Silk Road, serves as a testament to this enduring friendship. The CPEC's first phase witnessed the launch of numerous power generation and transmission projects, while basic infrastructure such as highways, railways, airports, and seaports was upgraded.

In its second phase, Pakistan focuses on stimulating socio-economic development and job creation through the establishment of special economic zones and encouraging Chinese-Pakistani joint ventures, with particular emphasis on agro-ecology.

President Xi's vision of regional connectivity and a people-centric development model aligns seamlessly with Prime Minister Imran Khan's vision of "Naya Pakistan." The CPEC is considered a game-changer for the entire region, connecting Gwadar Port to Xinjiang, thereby promoting prosperity and "leaving no one behind."

The CPEC not only strengthens China-Pakistan economic ties but also paves the way for cooperative regional integration, benefiting South and Central Asia. It creates new trade routes for China, positioning Pakistan as a pivotal player in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Ambassador Hashmi stressed the need for Pakistan and China to adapt to the evolving global landscape characterized by trade wars, military tensions, and unilateralism. In light of the geopolitical changes, they must maintain policy coherence, foster trust with neighbors, and advocate for a just, rule-based multilateral system.

Such interdependence can transcend geographical constraints, ensuring sustainable socioeconomic and security balance not only in South Asia but worldwide. Pakistan and China envision becoming partners for peace, development, and harmony.

Their seven-decade-long friendship signifies true solidarity in deeds, as they stand as "all-weather" strategic cooperative partners and "iron brothers," as President Xi Jinping aptly describes it. Their diplomatic journey, which began in 1951, has evolved to encompass not only trade agreements but also robust defense and military collaboration. Pakistan's unwavering support has played a pivotal role in China's international standing, reinforcing their enduring bond.