In the diplomatic history of the world, some relationships are not limited merely to political and economic interests. Over time, despite trials, changing global circumstances, and regional challenges, such ties evolve into symbols of deep friendship and affection. The relationship between Pakistan and China today is of exactly this nature, and the celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries is a shining testament to this everlasting friendship, which was recently celebrated across Pakistan with great enthusiasm. Pakistan was the first country in the Islamic world and among the earliest nations to recognize the People’s Republic of China in 1951. Later, Pakistan played the role of a bridge in establishing diplomatic contacts between the United States and China, which remains a golden chapter in history. This decision laid the foundation of trust between the two countries, and with time, these ties transcended ordinary diplomacy to become a symbol of enduring friendship.
On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations, a ceremony was held in Islamabad attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, members of the federal cabinet, and the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong. Another event in the same connection was hosted by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah at Karachi’s historic Mohatta Palace, attended by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chinese Consul General in Karachi Yang Yundong, and other distinguished personalities of the city. I was also invited to this event. In his speech, Bilawal Bhutto said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, together with Chinese leader Mao Zedong, laid the foundation of historic Pakistan-China relations, and he was the last foreign leader to meet Mao Zedong. The bond established during that era is today regarded as a friendship “higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the oceans, and sweeter than honey.” On this occasion, Chinese Consul General Yang Yundong delivered a touching speech and described Pakistan-China friendship as everlasting.
I have long-standing friendly relations with Chinese Consul General Yang Yundong and often invite him to my home. On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations, I invited him for a dinner reception in his honor at my residence. consuls general of other countries, MNA Dr. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, Arif Habib, and several distinguished guests attended the event.
During my speech, I appreciated the exemplary role of Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and Consul General Yang Yundong in strengthening Pakistan-China relations. I particularly praised their efforts during Pakistan-India war “Marka-e-Haq,” and extended every possible diplomatic and defense support to Pakistan. Today, every country in the world seeks friendship with China because China has emerged as a global economic and strategic power. However, Pakistan stood by China at a time when many countries hesitated to do so. On this occasion, a cake was cut to celebrate the 75th anniversary.
Regarding this everlasting friendship, I would like to share an incident narrated to me by former Defense Minister Aftab Shaban Mirani (late). After the fall of Dhaka in 1971, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman agreed upon a dangerous plan concerning the 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war held in India. In 1972, India introduced a resolution in the United Nations Security Council seeking recognition of Bangladesh as a sovereign country. The resolution had the support of most Security Council members. There was a strong possibility that if the resolution had passed, India would have handed over the 90,000 Pakistani prisoners to Bangladesh, which, as a newly recognized state, could have prosecuted senior Pakistani military officers for war crimes and imposed severe punishments on them. Through this move, India intended to humiliate the Pakistani armed forces before the world.
Pakistan faced an extremely difficult situation. At that critical moment, Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto secretly traveled to China one night and informed the Chinese leadership about India’s alleged intentions. China had recently become a member of the UN Security Council. Chairman Mao Zedong assured Prime Minister Bhutto that China would not leave Pakistan alone in these difficult circumstances. Thus, when the resolution for Bangladesh’s recognition was presented in the Security Council under Indian influence, China vetoed the resolution, thwarting what Pakistan viewed as an Indian conspiracy. Later, under the Simla Agreement, the Pakistani prisoners returned home without conditions, and Pakistan subsequently recognized Bangladesh during the Islamic Summit Conference.
The purpose of recounting this incident on the occasion of the 75th anniversary is to highlight that just as China stood by Pakistan during the difficult times of 1971, similarly in May 2025, when India imposed war on Pakistan to achieve its evil intentions, China wholeheartedly supported Pakistan during the “Marka-e-Haq,” shattering India’s ambitions. This is why Indian analysts today are compelled to admit that India fought not only Pakistan but also China in this war. Today every Pakistani takes pride in the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China friendship. This bond is a shining example of trust, sincerity, and mutual respect, and it continues to grow stronger with time. We believe that this everlasting relationship will continue to play an important role in the progress, prosperity, and peace of the region in the years ahead.
