Pakistan-China Relationship: A Strategic Partnership That Withstands All Seasons

"Since 1951, Pakistan and China have developed a strong strategic partnership marked by trust, cooperation, and support on various regional and global issues. The signing of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2013 was a significant milestone, enhancing economic ties through substantial investments in key sectors. Their alliance extends to military, technology, and cultural exchanges, symbolizing a deep and enduring friendship," Muhammad Taimur Fahad Khan,a foreign policy & political analyst & a think tanker associated with the Institute of Strategic Studies in Islamabad, told Sputnik.

"China has provided significant economic support to Pakistan in recent years, particularly amid financial challenges. The primary mechanism for this support has been through the CPEC. CPEC encompasses a wide range of infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, ports, energy pipelines, and special economic zones. These projects aim to modernize Pakistan's infrastructure, improve connectivity within the country, and enhance trade links with China and other countries in the region," Ahmad Naeem Salik, a global economic analyst, told Sputnik.

"China and Pakistan have a longstanding strategic military cooperation focused on security, defense, and regional stability. The Pakistan-China Joint Military Cooperation Committee (PCJMCC) facilitates this cooperation through arms sales, joint exercises, training, and intelligence sharing. Established in the 1960s, the committee enhances high-level dialogue, military exchanges, joint training, and collaboration on defense technology," Ahmad Naeem Salik, analyst told Sputnik, that Both countries conduct joint military exercises to improve interoperability and address various security scenarios. Recent efforts include expanding defense cooperation, joint military production, and collaboration in cybersecurity and space technology to strengthen their defense capabilities and promote regional stability.

"This partnership includes significant defense equipment trade, with China supplying Pakistan with fighter jets, naval ships, and missile systems. A key highlight is the joint development of the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, symbolizing deep military collaboration. Additionally, the two nations frequently conduct joint military exercises, enhancing their forces' interoperability. These initiatives not only bolster their defense capabilities but also underline their strategic alignment, aiming to secure regional stability and mutual security interests," Taimur Fahad Khan further expressed.

"Pakistan and China have deepened economic ties through projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and the primary mechanism for this support has been through the CPEC. CPEC encompasses a wide range of infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, ports, energy pipelines, and special economic zones. These projects aim to modernize Pakistan's infrastructure, improve connectivity within the country, and enhance trade links with China and other countries in the region. One of the most critical components of CPEC is the development of energy projects, including coal, hydroelectric, and renewable energy plant," Ahmad Naeem Salik, analyst shared.

"They support each other in international forums... Both countries collaborate in organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Their relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership, covering economic, military, and diplomatic cooperation, " A. Salik, the analyst told Sputnik.