INTERACTION TEAM
On August 18, 2023, the Pakistan Print and Electronic Media Foundations (PPEMF) and the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) came together to commemorate the 10-year journey of CPEC. The celebration took place at the National Museum Karachi, featuring an enlightening speech by the Chairman of Rabita Forum International (RFI). For the benefit of our readers, the Chairman’s insightful address is presented here.
Excellency YANG VANDONG, Consul General of the People’s Republic of CHINA,
Excellencies of Sultanate Oman, Eng. Sami Abdullah Alkhanjari, Jagath Abeywarna, CG Sri Lanka, Vice CG of Iran, and Counselors of different countries,
Respected Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
While welcoming all of you, I take immense pleasure in participating in this August gathering to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of CPEC, organized by PPEMF and PNCA. I am truly grateful to PPEMF and PNCA for extending the invitation to me for this prestigious event.
I had the privilege of visiting China in September 1999, which was approximately twenty-four years ago. I led a delegation of esteemed journalists on the occasion of China’s Golden Jubilee, and this visit was made possible through the gracious invitation of the Chinese Government.
At that time, a resounding slogan echoed, declaring the profound depth of Pakistan-China friendship as being higher than the Himalayan Mountains, deeper than the sea, and sweeter than honey. During that period, CPEC was still in its preparatory stages. Today, we proudly proclaim that Pakistan and China stand as ironclad brothers.
The history of Pakistan-China relations spans several decades, with Pakistan steadfastly supporting China’s bid for permanent membership in the UNO. It is worth recalling the initial visit of Henry Kissinger, the Foreign Minister of the USA. Notably, during that era, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) was the sole airline connecting China to the rest of the world. Pakistan has consistently upheld the principle of One China.
China holds an enduring memory of Pakistan’s unwavering support. In return, China has been a steadfast ally, providing crucial assistance on issues such as Kashmir and other matters of significance to Pakistan within the realm of the UNO and various international organizations.
The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands as the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), designed to uplift developing nations and promote global peace. The resounding support for this project from over 100 countries underscores its widespread international appeal.
Despite opposition from the USA and India, who voice concerns over the BRI and CPEC, Pakistan and China remain committed to progress and development, firmly rejecting any hegemonic aspirations. By 2030, China envisions its products, proudly “Made in China,” reaching all corners of the globe. China’s strategic efforts are already evident in fostering stronger relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as its active engagement in Palestine and various African countries.
With regard to CPEC, Pakistan faces pressure, especially from the West and notably the USA, to reconsider its commitment. Despite these challenges, Pakistan displays remarkable resilience and views CPEC as an integral part of its strategic interests. The resolute determination of the Pakistani nation to see CPEC through to completion remains unshaken. China’s unwavering support for this project is nothing short of remarkable.
To conclude I want to assure Your Excellency that the people of Pakistan are deeply grateful for China’s unwavering support, not only in the context of CPEC but also on the global stage. We wholeheartedly pledge our continuous backing to China and reiterate our strong determination to successfully bring the CPEC project to fruition. Thank you
Pakistan Zindabad
Pak-China friendship Paindabad.