Beijing: Pakistan and China have reiterated their firm commitment to combating terrorism and strengthening strategic cooperation, according to a joint statement issued following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official visit to China.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited China from May 23 to May 26, during which he held high-level meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. The visit also marked celebrations commemorating 75 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China.
The joint communiqué released after the visit highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries and outlined agreements on regional security, counterterrorism cooperation, economic collaboration, and diplomatic coordination.
According to the statement, both sides agreed to maintain close communication and coordination regarding developments in Afghanistan and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening strategic cooperation between Islamabad and Beijing.
A major focus of the declaration was the issue of terrorism and regional security. Pakistan and China jointly stated that banned militant organizations, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), as well as any other extremist groups, would not be allowed to use any territory to threaten regional peace and security.
The statement emphasized that no group would be permitted to carry out terrorist activities or use land under their influence for activities harmful to neighboring countries.
The two countries reaffirmed their shared position that terrorism in all forms and manifestations must be firmly opposed and effectively countered through enhanced cooperation, intelligence sharing, and regional coordination.
Security cooperation remains a central pillar of Pakistan-China relations, particularly due to growing concerns regarding militant activity in the region and the protection of strategic projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The joint statement also reiterated Pakistan’s continued support for the “One China Policy.” Islamabad reaffirmed that it fully supports China’s position on Taiwan and recognizes Taiwan as an integral part of China.
Pakistan’s backing of Beijing on Taiwan has long been a consistent element of bilateral relations, while China has repeatedly expressed support for Pakistan on issues related to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic development.
The statement reflected the broader alignment between the two countries on regional and international matters. Both sides agreed to continue working closely in multilateral forums and strengthen cooperation in areas including trade, connectivity, infrastructure, technology, defense, and energy.
During the visit, celebrations marking 75 years of diplomatic ties highlighted the longstanding friendship often described by both countries as an “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” and an “iron brotherhood.”
Analysts believe the latest joint statement demonstrates the increasing strategic importance of Pakistan-China cooperation amid evolving geopolitical challenges in South Asia, the Middle East, and the broader international environment.
Experts also note that the strong language against terrorism reflects mutual concerns over regional instability, cross-border militancy, and security threats that could impact economic development and regional connectivity projects.
China has consistently urged stronger regional cooperation to combat extremism, while Pakistan has sought greater international support for counterterrorism efforts and border security management.
The reaffirmation of support on Afghanistan indicates that both countries remain concerned about the security and humanitarian situation there and intend to coordinate closely regarding future regional developments.
Observers say Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit further strengthened political trust between Islamabad and Beijing and reinforced both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation across security, economic, and diplomatic sectors.
The visit concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction over the progress in bilateral relations and pledging to continue working together for regional stability, economic prosperity, and mutual development.
