Manzar Naqvi
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Thursday extended warm congratulations to the leadership and people of China on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to further strengthen its “ironclad” friendship with Beijing. Speaking at a reception hosted by the Chinese Consulate in Karachi, the chief minister described Pakistan-China ties as “time-tested, all-weather, and unparalleled in depth and strength.” He said the two nations have always stood shoulder-to-shoulder, supporting each other both in moments of celebration and in times of trial.
Shah praised China’s historic journey of unity, resilience, and progress, noting that Beijing has emerged as a global leader contributing to peace, cooperation, and shared development across the world. Highlighting the significance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the chief minister said Sindh has greatly benefited from infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects under the initiative. He expressed hope for enhanced cooperation under CPEC Phase-II, particularly in the fields of industry, agriculture, mining, technology, and education. The chief minister also lauded China’s consistent support to Pakistan during natural disasters, public health challenges, and development efforts, calling it a reflection of the deep-rooted brotherly ties between the two nations. “Together with our Chinese brothers and sisters, we are determined to advance our partnership to new heights, ensuring peace, prosperity, and sustainable development for our future generations,” Shah said. He concluded his remarks by reaffirming the oft-quoted sentiment that Pakistan-China friendship is “higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the oceans, and stronger than steel.”
In his welcoming address, Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Yang Yundong, reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Pakistan. In his speech, Yang underscored China’s steady economic growth, scientific and technological achievements, and its role in global governance. He emphasized that China remains committed to peace, stability, and building a community with a shared future for mankind. Highlighting the importance of China-Pakistan relations, he noted that the partnership has entered a “new era” with the release of a five-year action plan (2025-2029) to advance cooperation in industry, agriculture, mining, connectivity, and high-tech sectors under the upgraded version of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He stressed that China welcomes a strong, prosperous, and stable Pakistan and will continue supporting its modernization journey.
The Consul General also announced fresh emergency assistance for Pakistan’s flood-affected areas, including 100 million RMB (US$14 million) in relief supplies such as tents, blankets, and rescue boats. He further pledged enhanced cooperation in healthcare, education, climate change, counterterrorism, and cultural exchanges. Yang expressed gratitude to Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, and Speaker Awais Qadir Shah for their support and reaffirmed the Consulate’s mission to strengthen people-to-people bonds and serve as a bridge for China-Pakistan friendship. Concluding his address, he raised the slogan “China-Pakistan dosti zindabad,” receiving warm applause from the distinguished gathering.
