Introduction: A New Chapter in the China Pakistan Partnership
China and Pakistan have unveiled a Joint Action Plan 2025–2029 that aims to take their China Pakistan Partnership to a higher level. Signed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to Beijing, the agreement builds on decades of cooperation and introduces fresh initiatives for the next five years. The roadmap covers politics, economy, defense, science, and culture, reinforcing the nations’ bond as “iron brothers.”
Political Cooperation and Strategic Trust
The foundation of the China Pakistan Partnership rests on political trust. Both sides reaffirmed that their friendship transcends temporary interests. High-level visits, frequent consultations, and strategic dialogues will continue to guide their ties.
Pakistan assured China of its strong support for the One-China policy, including issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and the South China Sea. In return, China reiterated its backing for Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The two countries also agreed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, organizing cultural and political events to showcase their partnership to the world.
Expanding CPEC and the Belt and Road Vision
CPEC remains the flagship project of the China Pakistan Partnership. Under the new plan, both nations pledged to expand CPEC into new areas of growth.
Key initiatives include:
- Developing industrial parks and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Karachi and Islamabad.
- Expanding Gwadar Port into a regional connectivity hub.
- Launching new agricultural projects, including training for 1,000 Pakistani professionals in modern farming.
- Aligning CPEC with Pakistan’s 5Es Framework: Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy, and Equity.
This expansion will not only strengthen Pakistan’s economy but also improve trade routes to Afghanistan and Central Asia, boosting regional connectivity (learn more about BRI
).
Economic, Trade, and Financial Cooperation
The action plan places strong emphasis on trade and finance. Both sides committed to enhancing trade liberalization under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement Phase II.
To ease border trade, a new single-window system will streamline documentation and improve efficiency, especially at the Khunjerab Pass. China also encouraged its companies to invest in Pakistan’s digital economy, mining, and industrial projects.
In addition, Beijing pledged continued financial support for Pakistan’s stability, sending a strong signal of long-term commitment.
Technology, Science, and Space Collaboration
Another highlight of the plan is scientific and technological cooperation. The two nations will work on joint research in artificial intelligence, climate change, and disaster management.
Under the 2021–2030 Space Cooperative Outline, Pakistan will join China in lunar exploration and astronaut training. Plans are also underway to establish a Pakistan Space Center with China’s technical assistance.
Between 2025 and 2029, China will provide 3,000 study and training opportunities for Pakistani students and professionals in high-tech fields.
Security and Defense Cooperation
Defense ties remain a critical element of the China Pakistan Partnership. Both sides pledged to expand cooperation in counter-terrorism and regional stability.
Special attention will be given to protecting Chinese workers and projects in Pakistan, particularly those linked to CPEC. The two nations also plan to enhance capacity building through training programs, military exercises, and intelligence sharing.
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Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges
The China Pakistan Partnership goes beyond economics and security—it also thrives on people-to-people connections. More Pakistani students will study in China, while cultural programs will promote shared values.
Upcoming initiatives include:
- Joint film and television projects.
- Sports and youth exchange programs.
- Archaeological research collaborations.
- Media and think-tank forums.
These exchanges aim to build deeper cultural understanding and strengthen ties at the community level.
Multilateral Cooperation and Regional Stability
China and Pakistan also agreed to coordinate more closely in multilateral forums such as the UN. China reaffirmed its support for a peaceful resolution of Jammu and Kashmir under UN resolutions, while both nations pledged to work for peace in Afghanistan and the Middle East.
Climate change governance also featured in the plan, with commitments to share technology and resources for sustainable development.
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Why the China Pakistan Partnership Matters
The China Pakistan Partnership is not just about mutual benefit—it is also about shaping regional stability. From economic recovery to defense cooperation, this alliance provides Pakistan with critical support during challenging times.
The partnership also sends a strong message globally: long-term strategic cooperation between neighbors can create new opportunities for trade, security, and cultural exchange.
Conclusion: Looking Ahead to 2029
The Joint Action Plan 2025–2029 represents a major milestone in the China Pakistan Partnership. It builds on history while looking forward to new challenges and opportunities.
From expanding CPEC and boosting trade to strengthening defense and cultural ties, this roadmap reflects the enduring bond between the two nations. As Pakistan and China celebrate their 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, their partnership promises to grow stronger, shaping not only their future but also the stability of the wider region.
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