Peshawar  -  The 74th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations marks a significant milestone in the deep and strategic partnership between the two countries.

China and Pakistan have stood by each other in times when true friendship was needed. A recent example is the strong moral and diplomatic support extended by the People’s Republic of China during tensions between Pakistan and India. This was highlighted by speakers at a function organized to commemorate the 74th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Pakistan and China.

The event was jointly organized by the China Study Centre, University of Peshawar, and the Pakistan-China Friendship Association, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Social Welfare, Syed Qasim Ali Shah, was the chief guest at the event. He, along with the guest of honour, Vice Chancellor of the University of Peshawar Prof Dr Johar Ali, Director of the China Study Centre Dr Noor Sanauddin, General Secretary of the Pakistan-China Friendship Association Syed Ali Nawaz Gillani, and Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Peshawar Prof Dr Naeem Qazi, cut the anniversary cake.

On the sidelines of the event, the “China Friendship Wall” and a painting exhibition were also inaugurated by the chief guest.

In his welcome address, Director of the China Study Centre Dr Noor Sanauddin said that Pakistan-China relations have evolved into an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership that has stood the test of time. He noted that the China Study Centre was established with the financial support of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan. The Centre offers language classes, publishes an HEC-recognized research journal, and conducts research on Chinese culture and other matters related to China and its people.

Syed Ali Nawaz Gillani emphasized that the leadership of both countries has maintained close contact through frequent visits and strategic dialogues. He noted that China has consistently supported Pakistan on key issues such as Kashmir. In return, Pakistan has strongly supported the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which are considered game-changers for both countries and the region.

Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Johar Ali said that “Made in China” products have become a global symbol of quality, with nearly every country in the world depending on Chinese goods. He added that the two nations enjoy strong defence ties, including joint military exercises, training programs, and defence production cooperation. He further highlighted that Pakistan and China often coordinate their positions on international platforms such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which strengthens their global influence.

Chief guest Syed Qasim Ali Shah reiterated that China has consistently backed Pakistan diplomatically during times of crisis. Referring to the recent Indo-Pakistan tensions, he said that China reaffirmed its support for Pakistan, emphasizing its role as an “ironclad friend” and backing Pakistan’s counter-terrorism measures. He stressed that China’s support during such times underscores the deep, brotherly ties between the two nations. He also reaffirmed that if China were to face a similar situation, the Government and people of Pakistan would stand firmly with their Chinese brothers.

The chief guest proposed the creation of a Chinese language guidebook featuring 100 basic daily-use sentences to help Pakistanis quickly learn essential Chinese phrases.

The Director of the China Study Centre agreed to the suggestion and committed to publishing the booklet within a fortnight.