New Delhi: Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar arrived in the Chinese capital on Saturday, kicking off a high-profile visit aimed at reinforcing the enduring “all-weather” friendship between Islamabad and Beijing.
Dar, who was warmly received at the airport by China’s special representative for Afghanistan affairs, the Pakistani ambassador, and embassy staff, is set to co-chair the 7th Pakistan-China Strategic Dialogue with his counterpart, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, on Sunday.
This key mechanism – the high-level consultation forum between the two nations – will comprehensively review bilateral relations, explore fresh avenues for cooperation, and chart the course for future partnerships. Discussions are expected to cover regional security, economic collaboration, and pressing global issues, while recognising shared interests in promoting peace and sustainable development.
The timing holds special significance as 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and China, a milestone symbolising decades of robust political, economic, and strategic bonds. Commemorative events and new initiatives are likely to be announced.
Dar’s trip, extended at Wang Yi’s invitation, makes him the first foreign leader to visit China this year, highlighting the priority both sides accord to their partnership amid evolving regional dynamics.
As the dialogue unfolds, observers note its potential implications for broader Asian stability, including matters of interest to neighbours like India.