Chinese President Xi Jinping, during his meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s development goals and pledged to accelerate the implementation of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0). He described Pakistan-China relations as an “iron brotherhood” that has stood the test of time and emerged stronger.

Key Points from President Xi

  • Pakistan-China relations are very strong, brotherly and built on mutual trust.
  • Both nations adhere to shared values like China’s socialist system and Pakistan’s Islamic framework both emphasize public welfare, justice and integrity in leadership.
  • China will continue supporting Pakistan’s development especially in industry, agriculture and mineral resources.
  • Protection of Chinese citizens and investments in Pakistan is a top priority requiring a joint security framework.

Historical Highlights of Relation

  • Despite global pressure after China’s founding, Pakistan established ties with Beijing.
  • Pakistan supported China’s permanent seat in the United Nations and provided air corridors.
  • Pakistan acted as a mediator in establishing China-U.S. relations.
  • In return, China stood by Pakistan during the 1965, 1971 and most recent crises of 2025.

Importance of CPEC

  • At a time when Pakistan was facing terrorism, energy shortages and economic decline, China proposed CPEC.
  • So far, $28 billion has been invested.
  • CPEC projects have created 236,000 jobs in Pakistan.
Agriculture CPEC

Security Dimensions

President Xi emphasized that the safety of Chinese nationals and projects in Pakistan is non-negotiable. The presence of Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir during the meeting highlighted Pakistan’s seriousness on this issue.

Proposed Security Measures:

  • Establishment of a joint intelligence network (Pakistan-China Intelligence Agency Network).
  • Drafting comprehensive security roadmap for CPEC Phase 2.
  • Joint strategy against the fifth-generation warfare (fake news and propaganda).
  • Strengthening the local policing capacity with targeted investment.
  • Coordinated action at global forums like the United Nations and FATF against countries sponsoring terrorism (particularly India).

Key Aspects of Pakistan-China Relations

AspectDetails
Nature of RelationsIron Brotherhood (Strong, Brotherly, Trust-Based, Shared Values)
Flagship ProjectCPEC ($28 billion investment, 236,000 jobs)
Security ChallengesTerrorism, Propaganda, Threats to Chinese Nationals & Projects
Proposed MeasuresJoint Intelligence Network, Stronger Policing, Narrative Building, Intl. Cooperation
Future PrioritiesCPEC 2.0, Agriculture, Industry, Minerals, Upgraded Free Trade Pact

Expert Opinion

Political and economic experts argue that a joint security framework between Pakistan and China has become indispensable. They believe it will not only guarantee the protection of Chinese investment but also reinforce Pakistan’s political and economic stability.