by Mariam Raheem

 

An online lecture on the evolution of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations in 70 years by Mr. Hassan Daud Butt was organized by China Study Center, University of Peshawar last week. Mr. Hassan stressed at the occasion that whereas there have been many torchbearers of Pak-China friendship, it is important that the younger generation is made aware of the history and also opportunities in this brotherhood relationship which is now also transforming into a trade partnership. People-to-people interaction must be enhanced as it is also a vital pillar of BRI and CPEC.

 

Mr. Hassan is currently serving as CEO of KP-BoIT & SEAZ, who was Project Director/Coordinator CPEC Projects. He stated that no two countries have enjoyed a better bilateral relationship than that exists between China and Pakistan. “Since 1951 this brotherhood has reached new heights and has been termed sweeter than honey, higher than mountains, stronger than steels and leadership from both sides have fostered this brotherhood through mutual trust and with a commitment to taking this relationship forward.”

 

Pakistan was the first Muslim state to accept China in 1950. “Despite highly divergent societies and culture, Pakistan considers China as one of its closest friend and partner and China considers Pakistan as its ‘Iron Brother’ and maintaining close relations with China is a central part of Pakistan's foreign policy.” Hassan maintained.

 

Mr. Hassan further said that China has seen unprecedented growth and today through BRI is stamping a more regional and global role of integration. “For Pakistan, CPEC is framing its economic model through cooperation in infrastructure development and partnership in energy, science & technology, agriculture, security socio-economic development. China is currently Pakistan’s largest single trading partner and with the initiation of CPEC, there has been an upsurge in investment flows into Pakistan especially in infrastructure and energy sectors.”

 

“Currently when the world is witnessing pandemic and economic challenges, both countries are supporting each other through joint efforts. Pakistan also is learning from China's development and poverty alleviation model as China which was once a poor country, today, is the world’s largest trading nation, contributing more to global economic growth than any other nation.” Hassan concluded.