Global Sanctuary

President Zardari's Visit to China: A Journey of Friendship, Innovation, and Cultural Exchange

President Asif Ali Zardari's recent visit to China, spanning from September 12th to 21st, underscores the enduring strength and depth of the relationship between Pakistan and China. The visit, which included attendance at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Golden Panda International Cultural Forum and subsequent travels across Sichuan Province, Shanghai Municipality, and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, served as a platform to further solidify bilateral ties and explore new avenues for cooperation.

This journey marked President Zardari's second visit to China this year, following a state visit in February, demonstrating his personal commitment to nurturing the bond between the two nations. Throughout his travels, President Zardari engaged with local government officials, interacted with everyday citizens, and experienced firsthand the rapid development and modernization taking place across China.

Bridging Cultures Through Art and Dialogue

At the Golden Panda Forum in Chengdu, President Zardari highlighted the significance of cultural exchange in fostering understanding and cooperation on a global scale. He praised the forum for its use of art as a universal language to connect diverse communities and bridge divides. Emphasizing the importance of embracing cultural diversity, promoting equality among civilizations, encouraging people-to-people exchanges, and prioritizing dialogue, he noted the forum's alignment with the Global Civilization Initiative. This initiative seeks to counter narratives that promote conflict and instead fosters mutual learning and respect among different cultures.

Several recent initiatives exemplify the deepening cultural ties between China and Pakistan. The film "BaTie Girl" has resonated with audiences in both countries, while the Gandhara Art Exhibition at the Palace Museum in Beijing showcased Pakistan's rich cultural heritage. Pakistani mangoes have become a popular treat among Chinese consumers, and the "Tea for Harmony" cultural program has gained considerable traction in Pakistan. Furthermore, the growing popularity of Urdu programs in Chinese universities and the increasing number of Pakistani students pursuing higher education in China highlight the expanding educational exchanges between the two countries. The establishment of the CPEC Consortium of Universities, comprising over 130 institutions, further strengthens academic collaboration. Even First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari's visit with giant pandas in Chengdu served as a symbol of the close and friendly relationship. These initiatives serve as tangible examples of how China and Pakistan are actively promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Innovation and Technological Advancement

President Zardari's visit also included a firsthand experience of China's advancements in technology and infrastructure. He travelled on the Fuxing high-speed train from Chengdu to Mianyang, witnessing the efficiency and quality of China's high-speed rail network. Impressed by China's scientific and technological prowess, he expressed his desire to accelerate the joint construction of the "Corridor of Innovation," aiming to broaden and deepen the scope of their strategic cooperation.

The collaboration between China and Pakistan in science and technology has seen significant progress in recent years. The successful cultivation of low-erucic acid and low-glucosinolates rapeseed in Pakistan has resulted in increased yields. Educational opportunities have been expanded, with 1,000 Pakistani agricultural graduates having studied in China. Infrastructure projects, such as the Orange Line in Lahore, have become iconic landmarks. In the energy sector, the first overseas project utilizing Hualong One nuclear technology has commenced operations in Karachi. Furthermore, agreements have been signed for joint astronaut selection and training, and China has assisted Pakistan in launching remote-sensing satellites. China is committed to aligning its capabilities with Pakistan's needs, fostering mutual complementarity, and unlocking the vast potential of the Corridor of Innovation.

Governance and Development

During his visit to Shanghai, President Zardari visited the Memorial Hall of the First National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC). He acknowledged the CPC's historical role in China's liberation and its rise as a global power. He recognized President Xi Jinping's leadership in transforming China into a major economic force and in strengthening the bond between China and Pakistan. Both nations are currently at crucial stages of development and revitalization. Recognizing this, China has expressed its willingness to enhance exchanges on governance strategies, learn from each other's development experiences, and collaborate on charting a new course toward modernization.

President Zardari's time in Shanghai also included a visit to the Shanghai Electric Group, where he witnessed the signing of cooperation agreements. Shanghai, as a major economic and financial hub, plays a crucial role in promoting comprehensive cooperation between China and Pakistan. The annual China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai attracts numerous Pakistani businesses, boosting exports of Pakistani products to China. Shanghai Electric's investment in the Thar Engro Coal Power Project has enabled Pakistan to utilize its resources to improve energy security and create employment opportunities, particularly for women. Furthermore, Chinese financial institutions, such as the Shanghai Stock Exchange, have invested in the Pakistan Stock Exchange, strengthening financial ties between the two countries. The sister city relationship between Shanghai and Karachi, established in 1984, has steadily fostered exchanges and cooperation.

Xinjiang: Unity and Development

The final leg of President Zardari's visit took him to the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of its founding. He visited Urumqi and Kashgar, toured the Xinjiang Islamic Institute, engaged with local Muslims, and witnessed the unity of various ethnic groups. He also visited Urumqi's Urban Operations and Management Center, observing the use of smart technologies to improve public services. In Kashgar, he offered prayers at the Id Kah Mosque, visited the Kashgar Comprehensive Bonded Zone, and met with Pakistani students at Kashi University, encouraging them to acquire knowledge and skills to contribute to their country and strengthen the friendship between China and Pakistan.

President Zardari expressed his satisfaction with the remarkable development achievements in Xinjiang, stating that he would encourage more Pakistanis to visit the region and further strengthen the all-weather friendship between the two countries.

Xinjiang has experienced significant progress since the 18th CPC National Congress. In 2024, its GDP exceeded 2 trillion RMB for the first time, per capita disposable income surpassed 30,000 RMB, public satisfaction with security reached 99.42%, and tourist visits exceeded 300 million. These achievements demonstrate Xinjiang's successful balancing of development and security.

President Zardari's journey across China served as a powerful reminder of the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between China and Pakistan. China is committed to working with Pakistan to implement the outcomes of this visit, advance the Action Plan to Foster an Even Closer China-Pakistan Community with a Shared Future in the New Era (2025-2029), and contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind.