China and Pakistan have stood together through thick and thin over the past 75 years and will continue to face future challenges together, making joint efforts to achieve a China-Pakistan community with a shared future.

These remarks were made by Chinese Consulate Lahore Commercial Counsellor Li Hoeteng during the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Pak-China diplomatic relations, organized by Iqbal Academy Pakistan, Gwadar Pro reported on Friday.

Dr. Abdul Rauf Rafiqui, Director of Iqbal Academy Pakistan, hosted the event, which included a flag-hoisting ceremony and a special exhibition of Chinese books on Iqbal.

Mr. Li stated that China and Pakistan will continue to enhance strategic communication, deepen mutual trust, and strengthen cooperation and friendship, delivering benefits to the peoples of both countries.

“On May 21, 1951, Pakistan became one of the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China and the first Islamic country to establish diplomatic relations with China.

Since then, our two countries have always supported each other and shared both joy and hardship on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

We have upheld the core principles of mutual respect and trust, standing side by side through various risks and challenges,” he said.

He added, “For 75 years, leaders of both countries have visited each other frequently. Our peoples affectionately refer to each other as ‘iron brothers,’ and have always stood together in times of crisis, whether facing natural disasters or other challenges.

History proves that China-Pakistan friendship is not by chance, but a choice made by our two peoples. This relationship has set a model for friendly coexistence and shared development between nations.”

Mr. Li also noted that as CPEC progresses into its upgraded phase, cooperation is expanding in key sectors such as industry, agriculture, and mining. “Our partnership in agriculture is increasingly visible, especially in Punjab.

The upgraded CPEC will continue to enhance well-being and development for the peoples of both countries,” he explained.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Abdul Rauf Rafiqui highlighted the depth and warmth of 75 years of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations.

He described Pak-China friendship as “higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the oceans, and sweeter than honey,” emphasizing that this bond is not just between states but between civilizations.

Dr. Rafiqui added that Allama Iqbal, through his poetry, envisioned the awakening of Asia and the rise of China. Today, the world is witnessing the realization of that vision, and scholarly work on Iqbal in Chinese strengthens cultural and intellectual exchange between the two nations.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China