Pakistan and China began their remarkable journey of friendship and cooperation 75 years ago with the establishment of diplomatic relations.

Since then, we have built a partnership defined by trust, consistency, and the ability to stand together through difficult times and shifting global realities. What began as a diplomatic engagement has evolved into a model of enduring cooperation between our two nations.

This relationship is also deeply personal for me. My late father in law, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, believed strongly in building lasting ties with China and played pivotal roles in shaping our early cooperation.

That legacy continues into the third generation. My son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and daughter, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, are both actively engaged in strengthening links between our two nations.

Our connection, however, predates modern diplomacy. For centuries, the regions that are now in Pakistan and China were linked through the ancient Silk Road — routes that crossed mountains and rivers, carrying goods, culture and ideas between our peoples. These exchanges have laid the foundation for a relationship that is both historic and natural.

Pakistan-China relations have never been transactional. They are rooted in mutual respect, trust and a shared understanding of each other's priorities.

Since 1951, we have supported each other on issues of core importance, including Pakistan's firm commitment to the one-China principle and our role in supporting China's rightful place at the United Nations in 1971.

What makes this partnership unique is how it has evolved. Regular high-level exchanges have kept it forward-looking, translating political understanding into practical cooperation, across infrastructure, energy, trade and agriculture — areas that directly impact people's lives.

I have witnessed this closeness firsthand. During my earlier tenure as President from 2008 to 2013, I visited China frequently.

These visits were not merely official engagements; they were opportunities to deepen trust, observe China's transformation and fortify our genuine friendship.

My visits again in 2025 brought those experiences full circle.

The scale of China's progress is extraordinary. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has consolidated its position as a leading global power and the world's second-largest economy.

This transformation reflects vision, discipline, and a sustained commitment to development that has reshaped the global economic landscape.

Through profound shifts in the international system — from the Cold War to today's more complex and fragmented world — Pakistan-China relations have remained resilient.

At a time when divisions often dominate global discourse, our partnership stands out for its consistency and clarity of purpose.

We do not view security and development as a race; we see it as a shared journey. This belief shapes our cooperation at the United Nations, within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and across the broader Global South, reflecting a shared commitment to multilateralism and dialogue.

This approach also guides our actions in times of crisis. During the recent war involving the United States, Israel and Iran, China played a constructive role by encouraging restraint and supporting dialogue, as well as resolutely backing Pakistan's mediation efforts, alongside its own compelling diplomatic engagement. This reflected our conviction that even the most complex disputes must be resolved peacefully.

China's Belt and Road Initiative has taken this philosophy of shared progress to a global scale. By investing in infrastructure and connectivity, it has opened new avenues for trade, strengthened economic linkages, and created opportunities for growth.

For many developing countries, it has demonstrated how connectivity can drive inclusive prosperity.

Within this broader vision, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands as a flagship of our cooperation. It has transformed Pakistan's infrastructure, reduced energy shortages, and created new economic opportunities.

As CPEC enters its next phase, our focus is increasingly on people-centered development — industrial cooperation, modern agriculture, job creation, and technology transfer — to ensure growth is both sustainable and inclusive.

Our defense partnership remains another key pillar of this relationship. Cooperation in defense technology, training, and joint exercises has reinforced Pakistan's capabilities while contributing to regional stability. It is defensive in nature and reflects our commitment to peace.

Yet, the true strength of Pakistan-China relations lies beyond governments and agreements. It rests in the bonds between our people.

Students, artists, entrepreneurs, and young people from both countries are building connections that transcend political cycles. These human ties give real meaning to the idea of an "all-weather friendship".

The symbolism of this year's Chinese zodiac — the Year of the Horse — captures the spirit of our partnership: energy, resilience, and forward momentum.

As we look ahead, our direction is clear: deepen cooperation, strengthen solidarity among Global South nations, and work together for a rule-based international order.

Our partnership is not directed against any country; it is rooted in mutual respect and shared progress.

Seventy-five years on, Pakistan-China relations remain strong, steady, and deeply humane — and that enduring spirit will continue to guide us into the future.

The author is the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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