Islamabad Staff Reporter
President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its strategic partnership with China, calling the two nations “iron brothers” whose futures are deeply intertwined. In an exclusive interview with China’s CGTN program World Today, the President highlighted decades of bilateral cooperation, mutual respect, and shared development goals.
President Zardari praised China’s remarkable achievements in technology and development, noting that innovation and hard work have elevated China to a respected global position. He said Pakistan has always supported China’s stance on regional and international matters and considers its relationship with China as both strategic and people-centric.
“Our geographical location makes us uniquely significant for mutually beneficial relationships. We must convey to future generations that through wise utilization of our resources, we can achieve self-reliance,” he said.
The President underscored the immense potential for cooperation in investment, disaster management, water resource development, and modern agricultural technology. He stressed the need to adopt advanced irrigation techniques to ensure water conservation and efficiency.
“Achieving self-sufficiency in agriculture is essential to securing our future. We aim to benefit from China’s vast experience in this sector,” he noted.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s intent to use space technology in agriculture, through ongoing agreements with China.
President Zardari highlighted that cooperation between the two countries now spans from the earth to outer space, and stressed the importance of transitioning from geopolitical conflicts to a focus on economic progress and peaceful coexistence.
“We stand by China under all circumstances and urge the global community to respect every nation’s sovereignty. China’s future is bright, and the entire East will grow alongside it,” he said.
Zardari, who has visited China 17 times, said his visits have always been driven by goodwill. Reflecting on China’s transformation over the last decade and a half, he said, “Fourteen years ago, China was very different. Today, it is a global leader. The love and warmth of the Chinese people keep drawing me back.”
The President called for further deepening of bilateral cooperation in education, agriculture, energy, and connectivity. He praised President Xi Jinping’s leadership and vision for global governance, particularly initiatives promoting mutual sovereignty and peaceful development.
President Zardari acknowledged the warm hospitality received by him and his delegation during their visit to cities such as Chengdu and Shanghai.
Speaking on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location and Gwadar Port’s role in creating employment and fostering regional connectivity.
“Gwadar has opened new doors of opportunity for our youth. Regional development must now focus on trade, infrastructure, and security. A safer Balochistan means better access for all,” he emphasized.
He also discussed plans to strengthen clean energy cooperation, referencing China’s leadership in solar, wind, and hydropower technologies.
President Zardari shared his experience of traveling on China’s high-speed rail, proposing a similar project to link Karachi and Hyderabad, cutting travel time from 2.5 hours to just 20 minutes. The plan would see Pakistan fund 60% of the project, with China providing the remaining 40% through soft loans and operating the system.
He also proposed sending Pakistani nurses to China for advanced training, a project to be funded by the Sindh government, with facilities provided locally and Chinese medical trainers sharing their expertise.
The President emphasized the importance of better road infrastructure to enhance regional integration and dialogue. “We hope the roads are improved so I can drive to China instead of flying — and have more direct conversations,” he said.
President Zardari concluded by reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to its all-weather friendship with China, urging global recognition of China’s achievements and its rightful place in the international order.
“Wherever I go, I say this: Respect China — its people, its technology, its wisdom. They are truly worthy of global admiration.”
