Pakistan and China are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. The milestone highlights their long-standing strategic partnership. It also reflects expanding cooperation in multiple fields.

Both countries describe each other as "all-weather strategic partners." Over time, they have strengthened their relationship through consistent collaboration. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) remains the central pillar of this partnership.

The CPEC has brought more than $25 billion in investments to Pakistan. It has created over 261,000 jobs across different sectors. It has also added over 8,000 megawatts to Pakistan's national power grid.

Key CPEC Development Projects

Pakistan has developed several major projects under the CPEC. Energy and infrastructure projects lead this progress. The Sahiwal Coal Power Plant supplies significant electricity to the national grid. The Karot Hydropower Project strengthens clean energy generation.

Urban transport has also improved with the Lahore Orange Line Metro Train. Millions of passengers have used this service since its launch. The Matiari-Lahore HVDC transmission line improves electricity flow across regions.

Gwadar Port in Balochistan serves as a strategic trade hub. Authorities have expanded its infrastructure through multiple supporting projects. These include Gwadar International Airport and a desalination plant. Social projects also support healthcare and education in the region.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa benefits from the Suki Kinari Hydropower Project. The Rashakai Special Economic Zone promotes industrial investment and job creation.

Sindh has seen growth through Thar coal power projects. The Sukkur-Multan Motorway improves transport efficiency and trade connectivity.

Strengthening Economic Partnership

China has remained Pakistan's largest trading partner for more than ten years. Bilateral trade continues to grow steadily each year. Both countries are increasing cooperation in industrial development.

New investments focus on manufacturing and special economic zones. These projects aim to create thousands of new jobs in Pakistan. They also support long-term economic stability.

Expanding Cooperation Beyond Economics

Pakistan and China extend cooperation into multiple non-economic sectors. They collaborate in agriculture, education, and space technology. China has already helped launch several Pakistani satellites.

Both countries also plan to send Pakistan's first astronaut to the Tiangong space station. China supported Pakistan during floods and other natural disasters. It also contributed to healthcare and education initiatives across the country.

Academic exchange programs continue to grow between universities. Many Pakistani students now study in China. Educational cooperation strengthens people-to-people connections.

Entering a New Phase: CPEC 2.0

Officials say the partnership is moving into a new phase called CPEC 2.0. This phase focuses on innovation and green development. It also prioritizes social sector improvement.

Both countries expect this new phase to deepen their strategic partnership. It will further strengthen cooperation in the coming years.

The Daily CPEC