Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the deep and time-tested friendship between Pakistan and China during the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State Council meeting in Tianjin. He said the relationship, built on trust, honesty, and shared goals, has withstood the test of time and will continue to grow despite future challenges.
Speaking at Tianjin University ahead of the summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recalled Pakistan’s historic role as the first Muslim country to recognize the People’s Republic of China. He highlighted important milestones in their friendship, including the first direct Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Karachi to Beijing and the construction of the Karakoram Highway both symbols of the enduring partnership.
Also Read: Punjab Tourism Internship Program 2025 offers Rs.60,000 stipend, apply now
The prime minister praised China’s remarkable success in lifting 800 million people out of poverty, calling it one of the greatest achievements in modern history. He affirmed that Pakistan’s government closely aligns its policies with President Xi Jinping’s vision of development and people-first progress, aiming to follow a similar path.
Focus on Youth and Education
At Tianjin University, PM Shehbaz urged Pakistani youth to gain modern skills, calling over 200 students there “ambassadors of Pakistan.” Noting that 60% of Pakistan’s population is under 30, he stressed the need to invest in education. He also highlighted that 1,000 agriculture graduates have trained in China, with over 30,000 Pakistani students studying across Chinese universities.
"Our students are the real ambassadors of Pakistan in China, with the optimism that, owing to their hard work, dedication, and commitment to equipping themselves with the latest knowledge and technology, they will return to Pakistan as architects of its future."
— Prime Minister s Office (@PakPMO) August 31, 2025
Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/A7XmSMjPh4
Disaster Management and Bilateral Cooperation
Earlier, PM Shehbaz praised China’s disaster-prevention technology at Tianjin University’s Earthquake Simulation Center and said Pakistan could learn from it. He also stressed boosting joint projects like the China-Pakistan Joint Lab under the Belt and Road Initiative. The prime minister confirmed flood relief convoys are active in Punjab and directed the NDMA to coordinate closely with local authorities for smooth operations.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited the National Earthquake Simulation Center during his visit of Tianjin University in China. He reviewed China’s advanced disaster management technologies designed to improve rescue and emergency response systems.
— Prime Minister s Office (@PakPMO) August 31, 2025
The Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/RSzwOPvKZp
Reaffirming Support at SCO Reception
Later, at a reception hosted by President Xi Jinping for SCO leaders, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s full support for Xi’s vision of a shared destiny, multilateral cooperation, and people-centered development. He said this philosophy has inspired nations worldwide and serves as a guiding framework for Pakistan’s development efforts.
The SCO Summit 2025 in Tianjin showcased Pakistan’s commitment to deepening ties with China and regional partners, focusing on economic growth, youth empowerment, disaster resilience, and multilateral cooperation.
