BEIJING, August 29: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is being widely discussed and covered in the media, but the relations between Pakistan and China go much further than the CPEC.
We are strategic partners and our relationship has a long history. Chinese traders used to pass through Pakistan several thousand years ago, an article in the state-run Chinese newspaper ‘Global Times’ said.
Previous generations of leaders in both countries laid strong foundations of friendship. It is our moral duty to carry on this precious friendship and transfer it to our next generation. Our relationship is above just materialistic interests. Actually, we are “iron brothers,” the article said.
The economies of Pakistan and China complement each other and the two countries support each other in domestic and international issues.
Right after the Belt and Road (B&R) initiative was proposed in 2013, Pakistan immediately supported the idea and extended full support.
We believe the B&R initiative is a model for the future development of China and the whole region. It is all about connectivity and trade and it covers multiple continents.
It promotes development of Infrastructure to facilitate movement of people and goods among various countries.
It also promotes cultural exchanges and the creation of harmony among various cultures and nations. The B&R can also help in controlling extremism, terrorism and intolerance, as stability and peace depend on interaction among nations.
Up to now, more than 100 countries and international organizations have signed B&R cooperation documents with China, and the B&R has been recognized by the UN. – DNA
