ISLAMABAD, Monday, September 22, 2025 (WNP): Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong on Sunday reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to further strengthening the ‘iron-clad’ friendship and all-dimensional cooperation with Pakistan, stressing that bilateral ties are a cornerstone for regional peace and development.

He was addressing a reception in Islamabad marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The envoy said China will continue to uphold high-level mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and accelerate efforts to build a China-Pakistan community with a shared future.

“A strong China-Pakistan relationship is not only conducive to safeguarding the common interests of our two countries, but also to ensuring peace and development in the region and beyond,” he remarked.

Highlighting recent high-level exchanges, Jiang noted that President Asif Ali Zardari had paid two visits to China this year, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended major events in August. These visits, he said, resulted in the launch of a comprehensive action plan covering 63 measures across seven priority fields to deepen cooperation.

He underscored that the upgraded version 2.0 of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would focus on industries, agriculture and mining, while efforts would also be made to upgrade the Free Trade Agreement and increase Pakistan’s exports to China.

“We will follow a people-centered approach, enhance cooperation in healthcare, education and climate change response, and expand youth and cultural exchanges,” he added.

The ambassador also reflected on China’s national achievements since the founding of the People’s Republic in 1949, citing rapid economic development, poverty alleviation, technological progress and global contributions. He noted that China’s economy has maintained steady growth under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, contributing nearly 30 percent to global growth in recent years and remaining the world’s largest manufacturing hub.

Jiang highlighted China’s advances in artificial intelligence, renewable energy and industrial innovation, saying they reflect the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) people-centered development philosophy. He also underlined Beijing’s active role in global governance initiatives and commitment to peaceful development.

Extending congratulations on China’s 76th anniversary, the envoy expressed hopes for prosperity in both nations and lasting peace and happiness for their peoples.