ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of China hosted the Sangam Gala 2025 here on Friday, celebrating the strong friendship between Beijing and Islamabad. Held under the theme “Advancing Iron-Clad Friendship, Sharing Modernisation Opportunities, Jointly Building a Brighter Future,” the event brought together a diverse gathering of diplomats, senior government officials, political leaders, businesspersons and scholars. Noted among attendees were Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan and Chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute Mushahid Hussain Sayed.
The participants shared reflections on the two nations’ development journeys, personal stories of friendship, and ideas to deepen cooperation in an era of rapid modernisation. The speakers emphasised that the transformation under way in both China and Pakistan had opened new frontiers for collaboration.
They highlighted China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan, with its focus on building a shared future for mankind, promoting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and expanding global engagement, as a framework that aligns closely with Pakistan’s own development priorities. PM’s Advisor Rana Ihsaan called it a defining moment for both nations to expand cooperation in trade, investment and shared modernisation.
He identified key areas for partnership, from industrial upgrading through CPEC and the revitalisation of Special Economic Zones to agricultural collaboration via contract farming and embracing digital and green transitions by combining Pakistan’s youthful workforce with China’s technological edge.
Drawing inspiration from China’s experience in poverty alleviation and governance, he said Pakistan sought not only to benefit from these lessons but also to walk alongside China in building a more inclusive and sustainable future.“China’s modernisation drive is not a solitary journey,” he said. “It is an open invitation for friends and partners like Pakistan to join in shared prosperity.
”The event concluded on a note of warmth and solidarity, reaffirming the deep and time-tested bond between the two nations, captured in the closing words that echoed through the hall: “Pakistan-China Dosti Zindabad!”
