Gilani accepts honorary role at Pak-China research centre

Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani has accepted the honorary chairmanship of the Pak-China Research Centre for Party and State Governance, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with China through parliamentary and institutional ties.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the research centre in Islamabad, Gilani said Pakistan-China friendship was built on mutual respect, trust and a shared commitment to closer cooperation.

He highlighted the growing parliamentary collaboration and institutional links between the two countries. He said stronger engagement at these levels was essential to further deepen their longstanding relationship.

Gilani also praised China’s governance model and institutional development, saying its experience could provide valuable guidance for Pakistan. He particularly appreciated China’s progress in poverty reduction, rural development and digital governance.

He said Pakistan could learn from China’s development policies and adapt relevant experiences to address its own economic and governance challenges.

The Senate chairman also highlighted the opportunities offered by the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0). He said the next phase could open new avenues for cooperation in agriculture, industrial development, information technology and regional connectivity.

Gilani stressed that employment generation and skills development should remain key priorities in the next stage of Pakistan-China economic cooperation. He said greater focus on these areas would help translate bilateral economic initiatives into practical benefits for people.

The establishment of the research centre is expected to provide a platform for research, dialogue and the exchange of experiences on party and state governance. It also reflects the broader effort to strengthen institutional cooperation between Pakistan and China.