Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar has arrived in Beijing to lead Pakistan's delegation at a crucial high-level meeting with Chinese leadership. The two-day seventh round of the China–Pakistan Strategic Dialogue commences on Sunday, with Dar co-chairing the pivotal discussions.
Dialogue to Strengthen Ironclad Friendship
This strategic dialogue represents the highest consultative mechanism between the two allied nations. It provides a structured platform to conduct a comprehensive review of the entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation. The primary objectives are to assess current partnerships, identify promising new areas for collaboration, and devise strategies to further advance the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. The meeting underscores the enduring and "ironclad friendship" that defines the relationship between Islamabad and Beijing.
Economic Ties and Trade Growth in Focus
Economic and trade cooperation continues to be the cornerstone of China–Pakistan relations. The dialogue will build upon impressive recent growth in bilateral commerce. According to official data from China’s General Administration of Customs, the total volume of bilateral trade reached $23.06 billion in 2024. This figure marks a significant year-on-year increase of 11.1 percent, highlighting the robust and expanding economic linkages between the two countries. Enhancing this trade partnership is expected to be a central theme of the talks.
Celebrating 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties
Beyond the formal dialogue, Deputy Prime Minister Dar's visit holds special commemorative significance. He will attend events marking the commencement of the 75th year of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. Both nations have planned a series of joint initiatives and celebratory activities throughout the year to honor this historic milestone and the deep-rooted bond it represents.
Upon his arrival in Beijing, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar was received at the airport by China’s Special Representative on Afghanistan, Yue Xiaoyong, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China. This high-level reception underscores the importance China places on the visit and the strategic dialogue.
