Pakistan, China reaffirm resolve to cooperate at multilateral fora

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have exchanged views on the latest regional and global developments, reaffirming their resolve to maintain close coordination and continue consultations on issues of mutual interest.

The two neighbours resolved this during a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (DPM/FM) Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Wang Yi, Foreign Minister of China, in Shanghai on the margins of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). Both leaders also reiterated their commitment to continue cooperation at multilateral fora.

The meeting further reinforced Pakistan–China strategic cooperation. It also reflected the shared commitment of the two countries to innovation-driven development and cooperation in emerging technologies.

The DPM/FM was accompanied by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister for Information Technology & Telecommunications; Ali Mustafa Dar, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Punjab on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Special Initiatives; Bilal Bin Saqib, Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA); Dr Syed Asad Ali Gillani, Additional Secretary (Asia Pacific), Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Aizaz Khan, Pakistan’s Chargé d’Affaires in Beijing, China.

The two sides reviewed the broad canvas of Pakistan–China bilateral relations. They expressed satisfaction over the continued strength and steady growth of the bilateral partnership. They also reaffirmed their shared commitment to further deepening the Pakistan–China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

They underscored the importance of advancing high-quality development under CPEC 2.0. They agreed to strengthen practical cooperation and enhance collaboration in trade, investment, science and technology, the digital economy and artificial intelligence.

During the visit, the Dar signed the Agreement on the Establishment of the WAICO on behalf of Pakistan. A total of 29 countries signed the Agreement. It may be recalled that Pakistan is one of the founding members of WAICO, a key platform for international cooperation, capacity building, and bridging the digital divide. The signing ceremony was preceded by a banquet hosted by President Xi Jinping in honour of the visiting delegations.

World Artificial Intelligence Conference was inaugurated by President Xi Jinping.

Besides reaffirming their resolve to further strengthen bilateral relations, Pakistan and China agreed that technological advancement should support sustainable development and the socio-economic progress of developing countries.

Dar returned to Pakistan after concluding his visit to China, during which Pakistan formally joined the WAICO by signing the founding agreement on behalf of Pakistan.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026