High-Level Forum Discusses Pakistan’s Diplomatic Relations with China and the US
Independent Report
Islamabad, 30 November 2025
A high-profile forum on Pakistan’s foreign relations, with a focus on China and the United States, was held in Islamabad, organized by Sarzameen Forum Chairman Safdar Khan. Attendees included Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren, foreign affairs expert Muhammad Mehdi, former National Security Advisor Gen Nasser Janjua, Safdar Ali Khan, and other distinguished participants.
During the event, speakers emphasized that Pakistan’s foreign policy must prioritize national interest over emotions.
Chinese Consul General Zhao highlighted the 74-year-old China–Pakistan friendship, rooted in shared civilizations and strengthened through extensive diplomatic engagement. He noted that high-level exchanges, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China, have resulted in an action plan outlining 63 areas of cooperation until 2029.
He detailed CPEC’s achievements, including $25.93 billion in investment, 261,000 jobs, 510 km of expressways, over 8,000 MW of electricity, and a strengthened power transmission network. Key projects like the Orange Line Metro, Haier-Ruba Economic Zone, Quaid-e-Azam Solar Park, and Chashma Nuclear Plant have benefited millions. Zhao emphasized that CPEC Phase 2 will focus on Growth, Livelihood, Innovation, Green, and Open corridors, promoting industrial, agricultural, IT, AI, and digital economy development.
Muhammad Mehdi stressed the importance of Pakistan maintaining strong ties with both the US and China while making policy decisions with realism. He noted that although CPEC is Pakistan’s strongest economic partnership, delays in implementation have limited public benefits. Mehdi urged that Phase 2 efforts must translate into tangible improvements for ordinary citizens.
The forum concluded with a reaffirmation of China’s commitment to Pakistan’s development, investment, and long-term prosperity, highlighting the bilateral partnership as a pillar of regional stability and global cooperation.
