By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - China and Pakistan have reaffirmed their “ironclad” all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, pledging deeper cooperation on security, counterterrorism, economic development, regional stability and key international issues, following the Seventh Round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue held in Beijing.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Sunday, during Dar’s official visit to China from January 3 to 5, 2026, according to joint statement.

Both sides agreed to strengthen strategic communication, enhance mutual trust, and safeguard shared interests, while launching commemorative activities in 2026 to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

On security and counterterrorism, China praised Pakistan’s comprehensive measures to combat terrorism and protect Chinese nationals and projects, acknowledging Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against extremism. The two sides reiterated zero tolerance for terrorism in all its forms, opposed double standards on counterterrorism, and agreed to further enhance security cooperation to ensure the smooth and secure advancement of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

The ministers agreed to upgrade CPEC to version 2.0, focusing on industry, agriculture and mining, the development of Gwadar Port, the Karakoram Highway, and enhanced trade and people-to-people connectivity, including year-round operation of the Khunjerab Pass. They also welcomed third-party participation in CPEC in line with agreed modalities.

On regional issues, Pakistan briefed China on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. China reiterated that the Kashmir dispute is a legacy issue that should be resolved peacefully in accordance with UN resolutions, the UN Charter and bilateral agreements, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in South Asia.

Regarding Afghanistan, both sides agreed to maintain close coordination and called on the Afghan authorities to build an inclusive political framework, pursue moderate policies, focus on development and prevent Afghan territory from being used by terrorist groups posing threats to regional and global security.

China and Pakistan also expressed readiness to continue cooperation under trilateral and regional mechanisms, including the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan dialogue and the China-Bangladesh-Pakistan cooperation framework.

On global issues, the two sides called for an unconditional, permanent ceasefire in Gaza, reaffirmed support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, and backed the two-state solution with an independent Palestinian state. They also voiced concern over the situation in the occupied West Bank.

Both countries reiterated support for multilateralism, the UN Charter, and opposition to hegemonism and bloc politics, while agreeing to deepen coordination at the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. China expressed support for Pakistan’s upcoming role as rotating president of the SCO from 2026 to 2027.

The next round of the China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue will be held in Islamabad on mutually agreed dates next year.