ISLAMABAD: Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong said Xinjiang’s economic growth and regional connectivity could open new opportunities for Pakistan under the evolving framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as diplomats and experts gathered in Islamabad to mark 75 years of Pakistan-China relations.

Speaking at a seminar titled “Xinjiang’s Socio-Economic Progress, Ethnic Harmony, and Emerging Opportunities: Unlocking New Horizons,” the ambassador said Xinjiang was experiencing its “best period of development, stability and prosperity” and could play a key role in expanding trade, investment and connectivity between the two countries.

The event brought together diplomats, academics, policy experts and officials to discuss economic cooperation, regional integration and emerging opportunities linked to Xinjiang’s development and CPEC.

Jiang Zaidong said China and Pakistan would celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in the coming weeks and reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and development priorities. He also reiterated Pakistan’s support for the One-China policy.

According to the ambassador, Xinjiang recorded 5.5% GDP growth in 2025, while foreign trade increased by 19.9%. He said the region also welcomed 323 million tourists during the year and expanded renewable energy production capacity beyond 100 million kilowatts.

Speakers discuss regional connectivity and trade

The ambassador said his recent visits to Urumqi, Kashgar and the Id Kah Mosque reflected what he described as inter-ethnic harmony and peaceful coexistence in Xinjiang. He rejected what he called “false narratives” about the region and said ethnic unity remained central to Xinjiang’s development model.

Zafar Uddin Mahmood said Pakistan should align its economic policies with emerging opportunities linked to Chinese industrial and technological development. He described the next phase of Pakistan-China cooperation as focused on high-tech exchange and sustainable industrialisation.

Participants also highlighted the role of upgraded transport infrastructure, including CPEC routes and the Karakoram Highway, in improving Pakistan’s access to Central Asia and regional markets.

Officials and experts at the seminar said stronger collaboration in education, energy, tourism and industrial development could further strengthen bilateral ties between Pakistan and China.