Beijing hosted Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar from January 3 to 5, 2026, for the seventh China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Wang Yi. The meeting reaffirmed the ironclad China-Pakistan relations while addressing regional security and economic upgrades.
This reaffirmation underscores the enduring alliance’s role in South Asian stability, countering terrorism and fostering economic growth amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Wang Yi Ishaq Dar Meeting Strengthens Bonds
Wang Yi and Ishaq Dar co-chaired the dialogue in Beijing. They reviewed bilateral ties across political, economic, and security domains.
The joint communique outlined commitments to enhance China-Pakistan relations. Both sides vowed to upgrade the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
Pakistan reiterated support for China’s positions on Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea. China backed Pakistan on Kashmir and other core interests.
Discussions covered counter-terrorism. The sides called for verifiable actions against terrorist groups in Afghanistan.
Wang Yi praised Pakistan’s measures to protect Chinese personnel and projects. Recent militant attacks had strained ties, but both parties affirmed their resolve to continue cooperation.
Ishaq Dar met Executive Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and other officials. Talks focused on trade, investment, agriculture, and mining.
The visit marked the launch of the 75th anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations. A special logo was unveiled.
CPEC Upgrade Takes Centre Stage
The CPEC upgrade emerged as a priority. The corridor forms part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Investments total billions in USD. Projects span energy, infrastructure, and special economic zones.
The upgrade aims at high-quality development. Focus areas include industry, agriculture, and financial cooperation.
Both nations are committed to the timely completion of their projects. Security enhancements for Chinese workers were emphasised.
CPEC has faced challenges from attacks on engineers. A 2024 incident killed five Chinese nationals.
Pakistan assured comprehensive protection. The dialogue reinforced mutual trust on this front.
US Pakistan Outreach Deepens Parallel Ties
U.S.-Pakistan outreach has intensified under President Donald Trump. Relations warmed since his 2025 return.
In March 2025, Pakistan arrested Mohammad Sharifullah. He faced blame for a 2021 Kabul attack on US troops.
Trump publicly thanked Pakistan. The move boosted counter-terrorism cooperation.
In February 2025, the US released USD 397 million. Funds support monitoring F-16 jets in counter-terrorism operations.
This aid came despite a global freeze. It signals renewed strategic alignment.
Pakistan plans to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. The bid cites his role in resolving a conflict with India in 2025.
These developments create a counterweight to China-Pakistan relations. Analysts see Pakistan balancing major powers.
Historical ties with the US date to the Cold War. Recent outreach revives defence and economic links.
Background: Evolution of China-Pakistan Relations
China-Pakistan relations date back to 1951, with diplomatic ties. Pakistan recognised China early post-1949 revolution.
In the 1970s, Pakistan facilitated the normalization of US-China relations. Premier Zhou Enlai credited this bridge role.
The all-weather partnership deepened through defence pacts. China provided aid with nuclear and missile technology.
CPEC was launched in 2013. It connects Gwadar Port to Xinjiang with a USD 62 billion initial pledge.
Trade volumes are expected to reach USD 20 billion annually by 2025. Energy projects added 7,000 MW to Pakistan’s grid.
Security cooperation targets cross-border threats. Joint exercises and intelligence sharing occur on a regular basis.
Tensions arose from attacks by Baloch insurgents and Islamist militants. These targeted Chinese interests.
The 2026 dialogue addressed these. Both sides pledged closer coordination.
Pakistan’s economy relies on Chinese loans and investments. Debt stands at USD 30 billion.
US-Pakistan outreach offers diversification. Aid and trade with Washington complement Beijing ties.
What’s Next Amid US-Pakistan Outreach
Future steps include implementing CPEC upgrade plans. Anniversary events will highlight achievements.
Wang Yi Ishaq Dar may reconvene for follow-up. Counter-terrorism talks with Afghanistan loom.
U.S.-Pakistan outreach could expand with more aid. Nobel nomination progresses in 2026.
Balancing acts define Pakistan’s diplomacy. Stability in Afghanistan remains key.
China-Pakistan relations endure as a cornerstone despite external shifts.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 6th, 2026
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