BEIJING: Chairman Senate, Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani, highlighted the transformative impact of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on the concepts of development, connectivity, and regional integration. Speaking at the International Symposium commemorating the 10th anniversary of China’s principles of Amity, Sincerity, Mutual Benefit, and Inclusiveness in Neighbourhood Diplomacy, he stressed that the BRI, with its global appeal and membership, has brought about a significant shift in these paradigms.
Sanjrani lauded Chinese President Xi Jinping’s initiatives, including the BRI, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, as practical solutions for international peace and security, especially during challenging times.
He specifically mentioned the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a model project under the BRI, transforming Pakistan’s economic landscape and now inviting participation from third countries. Sanjrani noted that Pakistan is the first partner country of China under the Global Development Initiative.
Sanjrani further emphasized that the BRI and the other initiatives are contributing positively to global security and civilizational landscapes, playing a central role in neighbourhood diplomacy.
He described the Pakistan-China relationship as a practical demonstration of their founding fathers’ vision, built on mutual trust and respect, and emphasized the need for regional cooperation to overcome shared challenges.
Sanjrani expressed concern about the crisis in Gaza and the Israeli aggression there, thanking the Chinese foreign minister for supporting the just cause of Palestinians. He called for an end to hostilities, the creation of a humanitarian corridor, and a transparent peace process to realize the two-state solution.
On the Kashmir issue, Sanjrani highlighted the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination and the need to address their long-delayed aspirations.
He stressed the importance of fostering amity with neighbors, sincere interaction, mutual benefits, and the spirit of openness and inclusion in diplomacy, emphasizing the strength of understanding, coming together, and moving forward as partners in progress.
Sanjrani also noted that Asian countries have significantly contributed to global peace, prosperity, economic development, and civilizational linkages, acknowledging the challenges they face and the need for regional solutions to regional issues.
The symposium was attended by various regional leaders, former prime ministers, and senior diplomats.