A change in government may bring about a change in the system, but if not, it often leads to strengthening ties between China and Pakistan. Whether in personal relations or governmental systems, change is inevitable, especially in the rapidly evolving world, be it due to seasonal shifts or transformations in states. In this world of progress, there is a relationship that has grown stronger with changing times, and that is the friendship between Pakistan and China. Despite various governments coming and going, the bond between both countries has consistently strengthened. On a public level, the acceptance of their relationship has endured, and in challenging times, both nations have demonstrated solidarity, proving to be reliable allies with positive outcomes. However, in 1954, when the Prime Minister of China visited India, receiving a warm welcome from people, that same year, Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru visited China, and the Chinese government and people warmly welcome him. At that time, it would have been unimaginable that Pakistan and China would later develop a strong friendship. When the slogan of “Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai” echoed, India and China were fostering peaceful and friendly relations like neighboring countries. However, bitterness crept into their relationship in the year 1956.Now, from a clash of swords to a clash of rocks, the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, where 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives in a skirmish with Chinese forces over a road construction dispute. In response, the Indian government raised objections, leading to a shift in their approach. In 1959, when the people of Tibet protested against the Chinese government, the Indian government supported the rebels. As a result, the spiritual leader of Tibet sought refuge in India, and since 1959, India has played a significant role in providing the spiritual leader with all essential needs. Diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan were established on May 21, 1951. However, witnessing the growing closeness between China and India, Pakistan aligned its interests with the United States. Despite this, the significant role played by the Indian Prime Minister in forging a strong friendship between China and Pakistan remained evident. In 1959, when Ayub Khan proposed to India that they join hands in defense to prevent access to the warm waters of Russia and China, and work together to ensure the security of the subcontinent. However, Nehru rejected this offer, stating that Pakistan only wants to resolve the Kashmir issue and has no other motives. Consequently, in 1960, Ayub Khan’s government also reconsidered such dealings, realizing that engaging in conflicts with China was not in Pakistan’s best interests. On the other hand, in 1960, the Chinese Premier visited India and emphasized the need to resolve all issues between the two countries through dialogue. The Chinese Premier suggested that if India accepted China’s demands, peace could prevail in the region. However, China held a firm stance on its territories, and in 1962, when India raised concerns against China, India deployed a large military force to the Chinese border. In the faceoff between around 20,000 Indian soldiers and 80,000 Chinese troops in the region, tensions escalated. During that time, India’s infrastructure and defense capabilities were not substantial, and India was not part of any defense treaties with the United States. However, in response to India’s external threat, the United States, as well as Russia and Britain, provided significant assistance.
In 1962, the Indian military engaged in conflict with China, resulting in around 4,000 Indian soldiers losing their lives. China captured a significant territory after this war, and the situation became clear. This event had a profound impact on China and Pakistan, providing a clear understanding of American policy. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s foreign policy had long been influenced by the dominant colors of the United States, particularly evident when American planes, flying from Peshawar, were reaching Afghanistan and then heading to the Great Soviet Union in 1960. However, when it came to defense considerations, the Ayub Khan government strongly opposed such involvement, stating that Pakistan should not get involved in such closeness. This was a time when the friendship between China and India had deteriorated, and America’s role was more dominating than friendly; an ally does not become a master. To elevate Pakistan-China relations, one crucial figure who played an instrumental role was the former Prime Minister of Pakistan Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Bhutto’s efforts were pivotal in fostering and strengthening Pakistan-China relations. Indeed, in terms of the thawing of relations, Pakistan regained a 750-kilometer territory through the negotiations between Pakistan and China. In 1984, both countries signed agreements for cooperative projects, and China provided Pakistan with assistance amounting to 245 billion dollars. After 2011, China played a crucial role in evacuating 176 Pakistanis stranded in Yemen, keeping its ship until the last Pakistani was safely brought back. China continues to invest in various provinces of Pakistan, fostering economic cooperation. Currently, discussions of Pak-China friendship echo across languages, and the construction of the railway line from Gwadar to China is underway, named the China-Pakistan Railway Line, marking significant collaboration between the two nations. The initiation of electricity generation from Thar Coal reflects Pakistan’s progress. Observing the infrastructure, especially the well-developed roads, one might mistake Pakistan for a European country. Ongoing collaboration in various projects highlights the strong friendship between both nations. This camaraderie has become a dream for the likes of the United States and India. The United States has been making efforts in various ways to establish Indian dominance in the region, a dream it has been pursuing for quite some time. It is hoped that the enduring relationship between both countries will contribute to stability in South Asia, fostering progress in the region. Pakistan and China, with their policy of peace, are setting an example, engaging in economic projects that demonstrate their confidence in each other. Pakistan’s friendship with China remains strong, reflecting in its robust international relations and brotherhood with other nations. China has been a steadfast and reliable partner for Pakistan in challenging times, particularly during the war against terrorism when Pakistan faced numerous issues. Whether it was the atomic explosions in 1998, natural disasters like floods, or earthquakes, China has consistently stood by Pakistan, proving to be a supportive neighbor, a big brother, and a close friend. This relationship has transcended government levels and has deeply connected the hearts of the people in both countries. The enduring bonds formed at the grassroots level are lasting and strong. The current friendship between China and Pakistan is not just a government-to-government relationship; it has become a part of the hearts of the people in both nations. This deep-rooted connection is evident in the continuous support and love that both countries express for each other. The joint effort to connect the world’s highest railway, the Khunjerab Pass, between China and Pakistan, is a testament to the enduring and strong nature of this friendship. In this relationship, both forces stand together, armed with peace and love, establishing a constant and enduring brotherhood.