Beijing: The Chahar Institute and the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) jointly held a seminar on “CPEC and China-Pakistan Socio-cultural Connectivity” in Chengdu, China. The event brought together influential figures from both countries, including a four-member delegation led by Amb Dr. Raza Muhammad, President of IPRI, and a seven-member team headed by Prof. Cheng Xizhong, Senior Research Fellow at the Chahar Institute.
In his address, Prof. Cheng highlighted the ongoing global turbulence and the accelerating changes in the world, stressing the strategic significance of China-Pakistan relations. He emphasized the deepening cooperation between the two nations, with both sides working towards establishing a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era. He also noted that China views its relationship with Pakistan as a priority in its foreign diplomacy, and Pakistan similarly regards this partnership as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
Both think tanks—Chahar Institute and IPRI—play a pivotal role in public diplomacy and strengthening mutual trust between the two countries. Through their respective contributions, they aim to advance the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the broader vision of a China-Pakistan community with a shared future, fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
Amb Dr. Raza Muhammad, during his remarks, emphasized that the seminar marks the beginning of a long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration between IPRI and the Chahar Institute. He noted that the bond between Pakistan and China has only strengthened over time, particularly through initiatives like President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and CPEC. Despite facing challenges from common adversaries, the relationship continues to thrive, and the inclusion of other countries in these projects could further enhance the benefits for all involved.
Dr. Muhammad also addressed the broader geopolitical dynamics, stating that China’s rise, through the use of soft power and the BRI, is seen as a challenge to the prevailing global order. He highlighted the competition and geopolitical maneuvering in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, underscoring the importance of a close and multifaceted partnership between China and Pakistan. He also pointed out that projects like BRI and CPEC are key drivers of economic development, which can help address critical issues such as poverty in countries like Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan.
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A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the two institutes to enhance mutual understanding, cooperation, and knowledge sharing through academic and research collaborations, marking a significant step toward further strengthening the China-Pakistan partnership.
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