Pakistan and China set a new swiftness of nurturing their mutually valuable six decades long relations by taking more concrete steps to put their economy, trade and strategic cooperation on a new traction to bring prosperity for both the countries. Boosting trade and investment remained the main focus of Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabaos visit. The two inked several deals in energy and defence sectors worth billions of dollars. Wen said, “Strengthening and promoting strategic, brotherly relations is our joint strategic choice and they are in the interests of two countries and their people.”
In a speech to Pakistans parliament the Chinese Prime Minister praised Pakistans efforts in the international fight against militancy. He said that Islamabads sacrifices in this battle should be recognised and world should assist Pakistan in the war. This he said right after US strategic review of the Afghan war which said Pakistan to do more to beat the militants. These remarks show that China is the staunchest ally of Pakistan and uses its international thump to support its perpetually struggling friend and remain committed to helping Pakistan through troubled times.
The relationship between the two is a blend of economics, security and self-interest, and is almost as old as Pakistan itself. Both countries lately signed a number of documents on bilateral cooperation in economy, energy, finance, culture, defence and other areas. The two sides also identified infrastructure, energy and agriculture as priority areas of bilateral cooperation. During the visit, the two sides agreed to 35 new pacts expected to bring up to $30bn of investment to Pakistan over the next five years.
Besides economic ties, China is the main supplier of defence and military hardware to Pakistan, giving Islamabad military aid and technical assistance, including nuclear technology. This bond is reflected by JF-17 Thunder aircrafts, a multi-role combat aircraft jointly produced by both countries. Beijing also agreed this year to provide Islamabad with two nuclear reactors. Pakistan is keen for Chinese assistance in addressing one of the countrys most basic needs, providing a reliable electricity supply for its 170 million people. One of the biggest deals inked during Wens visit was a multibillion-dollar plan to develop wind and solar power.
Following the devastating floods that washed through Pakistan in August, China pledged $250m towards aid and recovery efforts. Moreover, on the cultural sphere, Wen and Gillani jointly announced 2011 as the Year of China-Pakistan Friendship.
Sino-Pak boosting ties illustrate that China is all-weather friend and loyal ally to Pakistan. Their views on strengthening and deepening the economic and strategic partnership shows that both countries are sincere to work together to make their friendship last from generation to generation.
MARYA MUFTI
Lahore
