Russia, China highlight Pakistan’s strategic role to deepen ties

In a joint message, Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong described the 2001 treaty as the cornerstone

ISLAMABAD: Russia and China have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding their strategic partnership, emphasizing Pakistan’s growing importance in regional connectivity, economic cooperation and international diplomacy as the two countries marked the 25th anniversary of the Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation.

In a joint message, Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev and Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong described the 2001 treaty as the cornerstone of a long-standing partnership built on mutual respect, equality and shared interests. They said the agreement continues to guide bilateral relations and serves as a model for cooperation in an evolving global landscape.

The envoys noted that political trust remains central to Russia-China relations, supported by regular high-level engagements and close coordination on international affairs. They referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to China, during which leaders from both countries signed dozens of agreements covering trade, energy, transport, innovation and education.

According to the ambassadors, Moscow and Beijing remain committed to promoting a more balanced multipolar world order and reforming global governance based on fairness and sovereign equality. They observed that Pakistan shares many of these positions and frequently works alongside both countries on key issues at the United Nations.

The statement also highlighted cooperation through regional and international organisations, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), BRICS, the G20 and APEC. The ambassadors described the SCO as an important platform for enhancing regional security, combating terrorism and promoting economic and cultural collaboration.

On Afghanistan, both countries reiterated their support for peace and stability, stressing the importance of dialogue and regional cooperation. They expressed readiness to support Pakistan and Afghanistan in resolving outstanding issues through diplomatic engagement while backing regional consultation mechanisms aimed at strengthening stability.

The ambassadors said economic cooperation remains a major pillar of Russia-China relations, noting that bilateral trade has remained above $200 billion for three consecutive years. They highlighted expanding collaboration in energy, technology and innovation, as well as increased use of national currencies in bilateral trade.

They also underlined ongoing efforts to integrate China’s Belt and Road Initiative with broader Eurasian connectivity projects, describing Pakistan as a key gateway linking emerging regional trade and energy corridors. Both countries, they said, attach significant importance to strengthening cooperation with Islamabad in these initiatives.

The joint message further emphasized the role of cultural and educational exchanges in reinforcing bilateral ties. Following the successful Russia-China Years of Culture programme, both countries are preparing to launch the Years of Education initiative for 2026–2027 to expand academic and research collaboration.

Concluding their message, the ambassadors expressed confidence that Russia and China would continue to deepen political trust, broaden practical cooperation and strengthen coordination on regional and global issues, with Pakistan expected to remain an important partner in promoting shared development and regional stability.