On 22 September 2025 in Islamabad, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani attended the Chinese embassy reception marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China as the guest of honour. The event brought together Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, diplomats from several countries, parliamentarians, senior officials and representatives from diverse sectors.
Chairman Gilani conveyed the Parliament and people of Pakistan’s warm felicitations to China’s leadership and citizens, calling the relationship between the two countries a source of pride. He highlighted China’s long march since 1949 and credited successive Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping, for lifting millions out of poverty and advancing the nation’s global standing. He described these achievements as nothing short of a miracle and praised the Communist Party of China for reforms, innovation and pragmatic governance that propelled development.
Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan China ties, Gilani said the partnership goes beyond diplomacy and rests on mutual trust, shared values and strong people-to-people links. He expressed gratitude for China’s timely support during national crises, specifically noting assistance during earthquakes, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.
On defence collaboration he underscored the strategic nature of cooperation, pointing to the JF-17 Thunder programme and the induction of J-10C fighters as pillars of the bilateral security relationship. Economically, he described the CPEC initiative as a flagship project and a bright chapter of friendship, calling Gwadar port a gateway to trade and prosperity that promises regional opportunity and long-term public benefit.
Chairman Gilani also highlighted cultural and educational ties as essential to deepening Pakistan China ties. He noted the role of Confucius Institutes, scholarship programmes and cultural exchanges in strengthening connections at the grassroots. He paid tribute to founding figures of the partnership, including Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai, and recalled Bhutto’s words that the relationship endures because it is rooted in principles, geography and timeless human values.
Referring to President Asif Ali Zardari’s recent state visit to China, Gilani said agreements on a textile industrial park, livestock sector modernisation and provision of emergency equipment will support Pakistan’s economic growth and public welfare. Drawing on his past experiences with Chinese leadership, he expressed confidence that Pakistan and China will continue to move shoulder to shoulder through history.
Gilani concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to further consolidate its all-weather strategic partnership and iron brotherhood with China, and to work together on regional stability, economic integration and shared global challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, conflict and terrorism.
