Pakistan and China have long enjoyed an ironclad friendship, built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for regional prosperity. As Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari embarks on his official visit to China from February 4 to 8, 2025, the historic ties between the two nations are set to reach new heights. This visit is not just a diplomatic formality; it is a strategic move towards deepening economic, technological, and infrastructural collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Phase 2 and the broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcome ceremony for Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 5, 2025. Xi held talks with Zardari, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Photo/Li Xueren, Xinhua)

Coming at the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year, this visit carries profound symbolism. It represents renewal, progress, and the strengthening of a time-tested partnership. With global economies shifting towards sustainability, digitalization, and regional connectivity, Pakistan and China stand poised to capitalize on these emerging opportunities. This visit is expected to solidify agreements in key areas such as industrialization, technology transfer, renewable energy, agricultural modernization, and people-to-people connectivity, ensuring that Pakistan moves beyond infrastructure development towards industrial and technological self-reliance.

A major area of focus will be the acceleration of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under CPEC, which aim to attract Chinese investment, relocate industries, and boost exports. Major SEZs, including Rashakai, Dhabeji, and Allama Iqbal Industrial City, are already under development, but stronger bilateral agreements during this visit can further accelerate industrial growth. China’s expertise in smart manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and robotics presents a unique opportunity for Pakistan to modernize its industries. Through technology transfer and joint ventures, Pakistan can boost local production, reduce import dependence, increase exports of value-added goods, and create millions of skilled jobs for youth. Aligning Pakistan’s industrial policies with China’s expertise could lay the groundwork for an industrial revolution, making Pakistan a competitive player in the global supply chain.

As the world moves towards a digital-first economy, China has emerged as a global leader in 5G technology, artificial intelligence, fintech, and e-commerce. Pakistan must leverage this expertise to accelerate its digital transformation. A major agenda item for President Zardari’s visit should be collaboration with Chinese tech giants like Huawei, Tencent, and Alibaba to develop Pakistan’s IT infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Expanding Pakistan’s e-commerce ecosystem by integrating it with China’s Digital Silk Road initiatives will allow Pakistani entrepreneurs and small businesses to access global markets more efficiently. Establishing high-tech incubators and innovation hubs in major cities like Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore will enable Pakistani startups to tap into China’s vast technological ecosystem. By fostering stronger ties in digital innovation, AI, and fintech, Pakistan can position itself as a regional tech hub, attracting global investment and boosting economic resilience.

Climate change is an existential threat to both Pakistan and China, making green development a crucial pillar of their bilateral agenda. China has already played a key role in Pakistan’s renewable energy transition, with major solar and wind energy projects. However, CPEC Phase 2 must now prioritize scaling up solar and wind farms to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, investing in electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure to modernize Pakistan’s transport sector, and developing smart grids for efficient energy distribution. President Zardari’s visit presents an opportunity to negotiate long-term energy agreements with China, securing investment in Pakistan’s green economy and promoting sustainable urban development.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 5, 2025. (Photo/Shen Hong, Xinhua)

Pakistan’s agriculture sector, which employs nearly 40% of the workforce, remains underdeveloped and vulnerable to climate shocks. China’s advancements in precision agriculture, urban farming, and biotechnology can help modernize Pakistan’s agricultural landscape. Key initiatives that should be prioritized include smart irrigation systems and AI-based weather forecasting, soilless vertical farming to maximize yield, and cross-border agricultural trade, allowing Pakistani farmers to access Chinese markets. By integrating Chinese agricultural technology, Pakistan can increase food production, reduce post-harvest losses, and ensure national food security.

While economic and strategic cooperation remains central to Pakistan-China relations, people-to-people connectivity is equally vital. This includes expanding student exchange programs through scholarships and university collaborations, promoting cultural tourism between Pakistan and China, and encouraging media cooperation to enhance mutual understanding. With thousands of Pakistani students studying in China, deeper academic and cultural ties can create a new generation of leaders committed to strengthening this historic friendship.

As President Asif Ali Zardari meets Chinese leadership, this visit must be seen not just as a diplomatic engagement, but as a strategic roadmap for the next decade of Pakistan-China cooperation. The focus on CPEC Phase 2, digital economy, renewable energy, agricultural modernization, and people-to-people ties will determine the future trajectory of this iron brotherhood. With the world shifting towards regional economic blocs and sustainable development, Pakistan and China’s partnership under the BRI can serve as a global model for economic cooperation and technological advancement. As we step into a new year and a new era of progress, Pakistan-China friendship remains stronger than ever—a true testament to mutual trust, shared prosperity, and a vision for a brighter future.

About the Author: Qaiser Nawab is a Strategic Communication Expert, Global Climate Youth Activist, and Chairman of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD).

The article reflects the author's opinions, and not necessarily the views of iChongqing and Bridging News.