Celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations, China and Pakistan reaffirm their 'ironclad' friendship, symbolized by the enduring Karakoram Highway.
The year 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan. Over these decades, the two nations have stood together through challenges, supporting each other faithfully despite geographical distance and ideological differences. Their all-weather strategic cooperative partnership has grown stronger with time, creating a bond as enduring as steel.
In April 2015, during an important speech at the Pakistani Parliament, Xi Jinping stated: "The traditional friendship between China and Pakistan will surely grow broader like the Karakoram Highway." This statement encapsulates the historical foundation of their relationship while pointing to its future trajectory. The Karakoram Highway, winding through towering peaks and rushing gorges, symbolizes the shared ideals and mutual support that have defined their partnership.
More than half a century ago, countless builders overcame freezing temperatures and high altitudes to construct this vital route connecting China and Pakistan on the roof of the world. This highway not only bridged geographical barriers but also linked the hearts and destinies of the two nations. Over 75 years, China-Pakistan friendship has grown stronger with time, remaining steadfast through historical tests while continuing steadily along a path of mutual benefit.
On May 21, 1951, formal diplomatic relations were established, opening a new chapter in bilateral ties. Despite turbulence in the international landscape, both nations upheld principles of mutual respect and support. Pakistan has consistently adhered to the One China Principle, supporting China on issues concerning its core interests. In return, China has always supported Pakistan's sovereignty and development.
Friendship between peoples is built through mutual understanding and shared experiences. Over 75 years, exchanges have deeply rooted this bond among ordinary citizens. From stories of friendship along the Karakoram Highway to mutual support during natural disasters and pandemics; from generations of Pakistani students realizing their dreams in China to Chinese-funded hospitals benefiting local communities; from sincere cooperation in cross-border trade to cultural exchanges—China-Pakistan friendship has become a shared emotional bond.
Practical cooperation is the solid foundation of this relationship. The Karakoram Highway's upgrading and expansion symbolizes how bilateral cooperation has evolved from infrastructure connectivity to comprehensive, in-depth collaboration. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as part of the Belt and Road Initiative, represents high-quality development. Since its launch, CPEC projects have focused on improving livelihoods and promoting development through critical sectors such as energy, transportation, industry, agriculture, and public welfare.
Today, profound global changes pose serious threats to peace and development. As all-weather strategic cooperative partners, China and Pakistan stand together, upholding multilateralism and safeguarding international fairness and justice. They have consistently acted as builders of regional peace, contributors to global development, and defenders of the international order.
The 75th anniversary is a new starting point for future achievements. Standing at this historical juncture, both nations will continue to deepen strategic mutual trust, promote high-quality CPEC development, and strengthen people-to-people ties. They will also advance together on the international stage, promoting a community with a shared future for mankind while safeguarding regional peace and global stability.
After 75 years of history, China-Pakistan friendship has become as majestic and steadfast as the Karakoram Mountains and as broad and enduring as the Karakoram Highway itself. We firmly believe that under strategic guidance from leaders and joint protection by their peoples, this traditional friendship will shine with renewed vitality in the new era, becoming ever stronger and broader.
