Expert: Ambassador Zamir Akram ®, Advisor to Pakistan’s Strategic Plans Division
According to Ambassador Akram, the cornerstone of the Pakistan-China relationship is security cooperation, which he describes as the most crucial pillar of their partnership. The Ambassador emphasized the longstanding nature of this alliance, referring to it as a brotherhood between “iron brothers” that shares a vision for regional stability and development.
Ambassador Akram highlighted the joint challenges faced by both nations in combating terrorism. He noted that Pakistan has been targeted by groups such as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and the Islamic State Khorasan (ISK). Significantly, he pointed out that Chinese interests and personnel in Pakistan have also been subject to attacks. The Ambassador made a striking claim, suggesting that these terrorist activities are allegedly supported by India, to undermine the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the broader strategic partnership.
Regarding defense cooperation, Ambassador Akram detailed the regular joint military exercises involving the army, air force, and navy of both countries. He underscored China’s role as a major supplier of military hardware to Pakistan, highlighting collaborations such as the joint production of the JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft.
Ambassador Akram provided an update on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), stating that it has completed its first phase of infrastructure and energy development and is now entering a second phase. This new stage, according to the Ambassador, will focus on sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and the establishment of special economic zones.
In the realm of emerging technologies, Ambassador Akram expressed Pakistan’s eagerness to learn from China’s advancements in artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge fields. He views China’s willingness to share its expertise as a valuable asset for Pakistan’s technological development.
The Ambassador also discussed the two countries’ participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), emphasizing Pakistan’s active role and the benefits of engagement with other member states.
On global issues such as climate change, Ambassador Akram noted that Pakistan is benefiting from China’s leadership in green energy technologies. Despite not being a major contributor to climate change, Pakistan is significantly affected by its impacts and is working closely with China in this area.
Ambassador Akram stressed that the China-Pakistan relationship remains steadfast regardless of regional political changes, including elections in neighbouring countries like India. He characterized the partnership as a long-term strategic alliance built on mutual interests and shared security concerns.
In conclusion, Ambassador Zamir Akram’s insights reveal a multidimensional alliance between China and Pakistan, deeply rooted in shared strategic interests. While primarily focused on security and economic cooperation, it encompasses a broad spectrum of collaborations that continue to shape the geopolitical landscape of South Asia and beyond. As both nations navigate complex regional dynamics, their partnership remains a key factor in maintaining strategic balance and promoting development in the region.
