ISLAMABAD: The seventh Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialoguecommenced in Beijing on January 4, marking the first high-levelinternational engagement for China in 2026 and underscoring the enduringall-weather partnership between the two nations. Deputy Prime Minister andForeign Minister Ishaq Dar, co-chairing with Chinese Foreign Minister WangYi, arrived as the inaugural foreign dignitary, highlighting the priorityboth countries accord to their relations amid evolving regional dynamics.
This highest consultative mechanism reviews the full spectrum of bilateralcooperation, from political and economic ties to security collaboration,while addressing regional and global developments of mutual interest. Thedialogue coincides with preparations for the 75th anniversary of diplomaticrelations, with announcements expected on commemorative events andinitiatives throughout the year to deepen people-to-people exchanges.
Economic cooperation remains a cornerstone, with discussions likelyfocusing on advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor into its secondphase, emphasising industrialisation, special economic zones, agriculturemodernisation, and green energy projects. Recent progress includes theoperationalisation of major hydropower initiatives like the 884 MW SukiKinari project, contributing to Pakistan’s energy security and sustainabledevelopment goals.
Military and strategic ties are expected to feature prominently, buildingon longstanding defence collaboration that has seen China emerge asPakistan’s primary supplier of advanced platforms. Reports indicatepotential advancements in joint ventures, including fifth-generationcapabilities, as both nations seek to enhance interoperability and regionalstability through joint exercises and technology sharing.
Space cooperation continues to flourish, exemplified by recent launches ofPakistani satellites with Chinese assistance, such as remote sensing andcommunication platforms that bolster socio-economic development. Theseprojects align with broader efforts to integrate technology transfers andcapacity building, reinforcing the strategic depth of the partnership.
The dialogue also addresses shared concerns over regional peace,particularly in Afghanistan and counter-terrorism efforts, with both sidesreaffirming commitment to coordinated approaches. Enhanced securitymeasures for Chinese personnel and investments in Pakistan underscore themutual trust essential for sustained collaboration.
Analysts note that the accelerated pace of high-level interactions,following the previous round in August 2025, reflects the resilience ofties amid global uncertainties. The focus on identifying new areas ofpartnership aims to elevate the relationship towards a closer communitywith a shared future.
Outcomes from the talks are anticipated to include concrete steps oneconomic revitalisation, with emphasis on high-quality CPEC development tostimulate growth and job creation in Pakistan. This aligns with nationalvisions for connectivity and prosperity.
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The strategic dialogue serves as a platform to harmonise positions oninternational issues, reinforcing multilateralism and mutual support inforums like the United Nations. Both nations view the partnership as amodel for South-South cooperation.
As the world enters a new year with complex geopolitical challenges, thePakistan-China engagement in Beijing signals continuity and strengthenedresolve to advance shared interests in peace, development, and stabilityacross the region.
Source:https://tribune.com.pk/story/2585255/dar-heads-to-china-for-seventh-foreign-ministers-strategic-dialogue
Tags: Pakistan, China, CPEC, Ishaq Dar, Wang Yi, Strategic Dialogue
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