China and Pakistan have agreed to deepen strategic cooperation and advance a new phase of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor as both countries begin commemorations marking 75 years of diplomatic relations. Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited China in early January, becoming the first senior foreign official received by Beijing in 2026. He held talks with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and co chaired the seventh round of the China Pakistan Foreign Ministers Strategic Dialogue with Wang Yi. Both sides reaffirmed political trust and pledged to implement the Action Plan for an Even Closer China Pakistan Community with a Shared Future for 2025 to 2029. Pakistan reiterated support for the One China principle, while China reaffirmed backing for Pakistan’s sovereignty and development priorities, underlining continuity and stability in bilateral ties.
Economic cooperation featured prominently as both governments agreed to launch an upgraded version of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor focusing on industry, agriculture, and mining. The renewed framework aims to align development strategies and generate early outcomes that enhance industrial complementarity and economic activity. Officials emphasized improving operations at Gwadar Port, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity along the Karakoram Highway, and expanding the corridor’s regional reach by welcoming third party participation under mutually agreed models. The year round opening of the Khunjerab Pass was also highlighted as a key facilitator for trade, logistics, and cultural interaction. Since its inception, CPEC has remained a flagship component of the Belt and Road Initiative, and the planned upgrade reflects efforts to adapt the corridor to evolving economic conditions and long term growth goals.
Security cooperation and people to people exchanges were also central to the discussions, with both sides reaffirming a zero tolerance approach toward terrorism and committing to enhanced coordination to protect projects and personnel. China acknowledged Pakistan’s measures to address security risks, while both countries agreed that sustained cooperation is essential for the smooth progress of bilateral initiatives. Alongside security, 2026 will see extensive cultural and public engagement activities to mark the diplomatic milestone, including youth dialogues, exhibitions, and sporting exchanges aimed at strengthening societal links. On the international front, China and Pakistan pledged closer coordination in multilateral forums, support for the UN Charter, and opposition to unilateralism and coercive policies. They also exchanged views on regional issues, emphasizing dialogue and peaceful resolution as guiding principles.
