Delegation Discusses Strengthening Pakistan-China Relations, CPEC, and People-to-People Ties with Chinese Officials.
Beijing, China: A high-level Pakistani delegation led by Barrister Dr. Muhammad Ali Saif, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information, visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in China. The delegation included senior religious scholars, political leaders, and academics, who held productive meetings with Chinese officials.
During the visit, the Head of the South Asia Desk at the Chinese Foreign Ministry gave a detailed briefing on the strong Pakistan-China friendship, shared interests, and ongoing cooperation, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Deputy Director General Mr. Xiang Maoming stated that the traditional friendship between Pakistan and China has evolved into a strong and practical partnership, with CPEC and other economic projects as key examples. He shared that CPEC is now entering its next phase, which includes five major projects, and China is also working to involve neighboring countries in this development.
Mr. Xiang emphasized the need to enhance people-to-people ties and acknowledged the important role scholars, religious leaders, and politicians play in society. He said this delegation’s visit reflects the special importance China attaches to such exchanges.
During the meeting, the Chinese side expressed their hope to see Pakistan as a peaceful, prosperous, and developed nation.
Barrister Dr. Saif thanked the Chinese government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the host institutions for their warm welcome. He assured that the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan is a top priority for both the government and the public.
The delegation appreciated the Chinese government’s efforts for the Muslim community, including in Xinjiang, and commended its steps toward promoting religious harmony. They also expressed gratitude for China’s support during the Pakistan-India conflict.
The Pakistani delegation praised China’s positive role on the Gaza issue, saying that the people of Pakistan greatly value China’s stance and hope for an even more active role. They also acknowledged China’s constructive contribution to improving Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.
Sikandar Hayat Khan Sherpao, Vice President of the Qaumi Watan Party, noted that both religious and nationalist groups in Pakistan hold similar goodwill towards China. The delegation also appreciated the efforts of Israr Madani and his organization in promoting Pakistan-China relations.
Delegation member Mufti Zubair Ashraf Usmani invited Chinese religious leaders to visit Pakistan and offered free education, accommodation, and meals for Chinese students at Jamia Darul Uloom Karachi and other affiliated institutions.
Syed Qasim Shah, Provincial Minister for Social Welfare, recalled that his father, Syed Ali Shah, had once initiated development cooperation between Peshawar and Urumqi, and suggested continuing that initiative.
Dr. Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Director of the Islamic Research Institute, proposed establishing Pakistan-China cultural centers in major cities and universities to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Mr. Sherpao also raised the issue of visa difficulties faced by Pakistani citizens and offered suggestions for improvement.
On this occasion, Barrister Dr. Saif introduced all delegation members and highlighted their social, political, and religious influence. The delegation included Maulana Abdul Quddus Muhammadi (Spokesperson, Wifaqul Madaris), Mufti Anwar Shah (Head of Jamia Ahsan-ul-Uloom, Karachi), Maulana Muhammad Ahmad (Darul Uloom Haqqania, Akora Khattak), Haji Muhammad Abrar (Tablighi Jamaat), Usama Ajmal (Chairman, Pakistan Peace Council), and Syed Shah Faisal (Head, Sadat Movement Pakistan).
The delegation expressed their firm commitment to strengthening mutual trust, friendship, and cooperation between Pakistan and China, marking this visit as an important milestone in bilateral relations.