LAHORE: China has commended Pakistan’s active diplomatic role in de-escalating tensions in the Middle East, noting Islamabad’s efforts in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran as a constructive contribution to regional peace.
In an exclusive talk with Daily Jang during a visit to the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Chinese Consul General Sun Yan said Pakistan had played a “significant and commendable role” in paving the way for negotiations and pursuing serious efforts toward conflict resolution.
The envoy highlighted the joint release of the “Five Point Initiative for Restoring Peace and Stability in the Gulf and the Middle East” by China and Pakistan in Beijing on March 31. He described the initiative as a reflection of the two countries’ responsible approach and deep strategic trust.
The five point framework calls for an immediate ceasefire, revival of peace talks, protection of civilian and non military infrastructure, and safeguarding maritime routes measures the envoy termed essential for sustainable regional stability. He noted that the initiative comes at a time of heightened geopolitical volatility and regional tensions.
Mr Sun observed that the current year holds special significance for China, marking the launch of its 15th Five-Year Plan alongside the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. He said the plan, approved during China’s recent “Two Sessions,” outlines 20 development goals encompassing economic growth, innovation, public welfare, environmental protection and national security, supported by 16 strategic priorities and 109 major projects.
Addressing a seminar hosted by the LCCI on the role of academia in the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the envoy reaffirmed China’s willingness to support the establishment of advanced laboratories, research centres and technology transfer programmes in Pakistan.
He urged universities in both countries to expand joint research and collaboration in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and green technology, adding that such cooperation would spur innovation and strengthen economic development.
Mr Sun emphasised that CPEC had entered its second phase, with a renewed focus on industrial development, technology, agriculture, digital economy and green energy. He underlined the critical role of academia in this phase, calling for closer alignment between educational institutions and industry to address practical challenges. Highlighting the enduring nature of bilateral ties, he said the China Pakistan partnership had withstood the test of time and continued to deepen, with CPEC serving as a flagship example. He added that several key projects had already been completed under the corridor, while future investments would prioritise industrial cooperation and joint ventures.
China, he said, remained committed to working with Pakistan’s business community to promote trade, investment and industrial growth, while also facilitating improved access for Pakistani companies to the Chinese market.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Sehgal, in his remarks, said CPEC Phase II would focus on industrial cooperation, special economic zones, agriculture, technology transfer and human resource development. He stressed that academia must evolve beyond traditional teaching roles to become centres of research, innovation and economic progress.
He called for stronger linkages between industry and academia to enhance productivity, innovation and global competitiveness, particularly within special economic zones. He also underscored the importance of collaboration between Pakistani and Chinese educational institutions through joint research programmes, student exchanges and faculty cooperation to accelerate knowledge sharing and technology transfer.
The event was attended by senior LCCI officials and representatives from academia, industry and other sectors, with discussions centred on leveraging opportunities under CPEC Phase II through enhanced institutional collaboration.
