Strategic Partnership Strengthened
President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed that Pakistan and China will continue expanding cooperation in defence production and aviation. The announcement came during his 10-day official visit to China. The President’s Secretariat emphasized that this collaboration reflects the depth of the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two nations.
Visit to Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)
During his tour of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), President Zardari met with engineers and scientists. AVIC is China’s leading aerospace and defence conglomerate, known for producing advanced fighter jets, including the J-10C. Pakistan deployed these jets during the recent escalation with India in May 2025.
Role of J-10 and JF-17 Jets
The president highlighted the role of J-10 and JF-17 Thunder fighter aircraft, co-produced by Pakistan and China. He stated that these aircraft have significantly strengthened the Pakistan Air Force. Their effectiveness was evident during May’s Maraka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.
Advancements in Defence Technology
At the briefing, Zardari was informed about AVIC’s latest advancements. These included the J-20 stealth fighter, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), automated defence units, and integrated command-and-control systems. He praised AVIC as a symbol of China’s technological strength and of Pakistan-China’s enduring partnership. Explore more Latest advancements of the week .
Historic Visit
The Secretariat noted that no foreign head of state had ever visited the AVIC complex before, making Zardari’s visit historic. He was accompanied by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, MNA Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Pakistan’s Ambassador Khalil Hashmi, and China’s Ambassador Jiang Zaidong.
Warm Welcome in Shanghai
Later, the president arrived in Shanghai, where he was warmly received by senior Chinese officials, including Chen Qun and Ma Yinghui. His itinerary includes visits to Shanghai and Xinjiang, with meetings scheduled with Chinese leadership to strengthen bilateral ties.
Focus on Economic and Trade Cooperation
According to the Foreign Office, the discussions will cover Pakistan-China bilateral relations, economic cooperation, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and future connectivity initiatives. The visit underlines the tradition of high-level exchanges between the two countries, reflecting their strong commitment to long-term strategic relations.
