Pakistan China Relations: 5 Misses & Gains
Islamabad, Pakistan – July 28, 2025:
In a key diplomatic development ahead of the upcoming Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) meeting, Pakistan and China vowed to expand CPEC cooperation, highlighting their long-term strategic commitment under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, met with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad on Sunday. The meeting was also attended by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, along with senior officials from both countries.
The high-level engagement comes at a crucial time, as preparations for the next JCC meeting are underway — a forum that plays a critical role in shaping future CPEC cooperation and guiding bilateral strategies.
According to a government press release, both sides reviewed the progress of ongoing CPEC cooperation projects and agreed on further strengthening Pakistan China relations in trade, infrastructure, and energy development.
First Phase Complete, Second Phase in Motion
During the meeting, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that the first phase of CPEC — focusing on road infrastructure and energy generation — has been largely completed. The minister said the second phase of CPEC cooperation is now centered around industrial collaboration, agricultural modernization, information technology, and social development.
“The second phase will deepen our economic roots and drive inclusive growth,” he said, reiterating the government’s full commitment to successful CPEC cooperation.
He noted that the integration of CPEC with Central Asian countries will further enhance regional connectivity and promote economic stability in the region, calling it a “game-changer for Pakistan and its neighbors.”
Gwadar and Mineral Development in Focus
The development of Gwadar Port continues to remain a top priority for Pakistan, Ahsan Iqbal stated. “We are fully committed to maximizing the port’s capacity and transforming it into a hub of international trade,” he said.
The minister also discussed the vast mineral exploration potential in Gwadar and its surroundings. With modern infrastructure under CPEC cooperation, these untapped resources can now be developed to support national growth.
“Gwadar is not just a port — it’s the gateway to prosperity,” he added, underlining that the city would become a key driver of Pakistan China relations in the future.
Strengthening Agricultural and Climate Resilience
The meeting also covered CPEC cooperation in the agricultural sector. Ahsan Iqbal said that Pakistani agricultural graduates trained in China would contribute significantly in addressing the country’s climate change challenges and improving sustainable farming techniques.
He highlighted how collaborative research and knowledge-sharing would help Pakistan strengthen its food security and resilience against climate impacts, which aligns with the broader goals of Pakistan China relations.
Pakistan Space Centre and Strategic Projects
Another major topic discussed was the establishment of the Pakistan Space Centre, a flagship strategic initiative. The project, Ahsan Iqbal noted, is of national importance and will boost technological self-reliance.
He expressed confidence that China’s partnership will be pivotal in ensuring its timely and successful completion under CPEC cooperation.
Ambassador’s Assurance: Unwavering Support from China
Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reiterated China’s deep commitment to Pakistan’s economic and social development. He assured that Pakistan China relations will continue to expand with even more momentum, especially as CPEC cooperation enters its next critical phase.
He praised Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to CPEC’s success and promised that China would provide full support in upcoming infrastructure and industrial projects.
JCC Meeting to Define the Future
Both parties acknowledged that the upcoming JCC meeting would be instrumental in determining the next steps for CPEC cooperation. Several high-impact decisions are expected to emerge from the session, which would define the trajectory of Pakistan China relations for years to come.
The JCC — established under the CPEC framework — serves as the highest decision-making body, guiding all project directions, approvals, and joint ventures between the two nations.
Shared Vision for a Prosperous Future
The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to deepen cooperation, accelerate progress on pending projects, and resolve any operational bottlenecks. Both leaders emphasized that CPEC cooperation is not just about infrastructure but about building a shared economic future for Pakistan and China.
With strong political will, expanding technical collaboration, and growing trust, Pakistan China relations continue to set an example of successful strategic partnerships in South Asia
