Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang spent the first week of May on an important visit to South Asian countries.
On May 1, he met in Beijing with Noeleen Heyzer, the Special Envoy of the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General on Myanmar. Qin Gang said that China and Myanmar are close neighbors linked by mountains and rivers, and China hopes more than any other country that Myanmar will realize stability and development. With internal and external factors intertwined, the Myanmar issue is complex and has no “quick fix”. The international community should respect Myanmar’s sovereignty, and support all parties and factions in Myanmar in bridging differences and resuming the political transition process through political dialogue within the constitutional and legal frameworks. He further noted that the international community should respect the mediation efforts of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and promote the implementation of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar.
The following day, Qin Gang arrived in China’s Yunnan province for an inspection tour, in which he stressed the need to maintain stability at the China-Myanmar border, advance the friendship and cooperation between China and Myanmar, and open up new prospects of border-related and Myanmar-related work. Visiting various places and projects, including ‘One Village, Two Countries’ border communities, he took opinions and suggestions from those working at primary-level units and on the front line. He stressed the importance of pushing forward the building of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor with a focus on industrial capacity cooperation and industrial park construction, to help boost the economic and social development of the two countries, as well as maintaining peace and tranquility in the border area and safeguarding the overall situation of China-Myanmar friendship.
This somewhat unusual public engagement by a Chinese foreign minister reflects the special position of the southwestern province regarding Myanmar, with, for example, the same and closely related ethnic groups and nationalities living on both sides of the border. It might also be considered as an extension of whole process people’s democracy on the diplomatic front.
The same day, Qin Gang began his visit to Myanmar, meeting with Than Shwe, the former Chairman of the Myanmar State Peace and Development Council, in the country’s new capital, Nay Pyi Taw.
Qin Gang said that China respects Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, supports Myanmar in advancing its domestic peace process, and stands ready to continue actively providing assistance for Myanmar in safeguarding independence, maintaining political stability and realizing sustainable development. Than Shwe said that the “pauk-phaw” [brotherly] friendship between Myanmar and China was forged by the leaders of the elder generations of the two countries, has been promoted by every generation of their leaders, and is deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples.
Also on May 2, Qin Gang met with Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing. The Chinese Foreign Minister pointed out that China sincerely hopes for a stable situation and national development in Myanmar, supports Myanmar in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and with Myanmar’s characteristics, supports Myanmar in continuously advancing its political transition process, and supports all parties in Myanmar to properly handle differences and achieve reconciliation under the constitutional and legal framework. China will continue to provide assistance within its capability for Myanmar’s development, accelerate key cooperation projects of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, and carry out projects on agriculture, education and health care, among others, for the benefit of Myanmar people.
He further noted that China supports Myanmar in improving relations with Bangladesh, with related issues to be resolved through consultation. China is ready to work with the two countries to expand practical cooperation among China, Myanmar and Bangladesh. The main cause of friction between Myanmar and Bangladesh results from the large number of Rohingya refugees to whom Bangladesh has given shelter as a result of conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.
Meeting with Myanmar’s Foreign Minister Than Swe, Qin Gang emphasized that China’s friendly policy towards Myanmar is for all the Myanmar people. China respects Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, firmly supports Myanmar in safeguarding independence, maintaining political stability and achieving sustainable development, and supports Myanmar in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and with Myanmar characteristics to steadily advance its political transition process. He added that China will implement its major aid projects in Myanmar to actively support the country in improving people’s livelihood, and the two sides should enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges and deepen exchanges in cultural heritage protection and religions. China is ready to work with Myanmar and Bangladesh to jointly promote the construction of the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor.
His Myanmar counterpart stressed that his country is ready to work with China to jointly safeguard security and stability in the border areas, and hopes to work with China and Bangladesh to push forward the construction of the Myanmar-China-Bangladesh Economic Corridor.
Following his visit in Myanmar, Qin Gang continued to India to attend the meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Foreign Ministers, held in Goa, in the west of the country. The main purpose of the meeting was to make preparations for the SCO Summit, to be held in the Indian capital New Delhi this Summer.
His first reported engagement in India, on May 4, was to meet with relatives of the Indian internationalist doctor, Dwarkanath Kotnis, along with representatives of friendship organizations and young people. We report this meeting separately.
The same day, Qin Gang also met bilaterally with his Indian and Russian counterparts.
Meeting Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Qin Gang said that as the two most populous developing countries in the world, both China and India are in a critical period of achieving modernization. The two countries should draw experience and lessons from history, steer bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, respect and learn from each other, contribute to each other’s success, pursue a new path of living in harmony, peaceful development and common revitalization between neighboring major countries, so as to boost their respective national rejuvenation and inject stability and positive energy into world peace and development.
He pointed out that the China-India border situation is generally stable. The two sides should continue to implement the important common understandings reached between their leaders, consolidate existing outcomes, strictly abide by relevant agreements and protocols, work to ease and cool down the border situation, and maintain sustained peace and tranquility in the border areas.
In their meeting, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told his Chinese counterpart that President Xi Jinping’s successful visit to Russia has injected strong impetus into the development of bilateral relations. Russia is ready to work with China to strengthen cooperation in various fields and to elevate bilateral relations to a higher level.
The two sides agreed to strengthen communication and coordination in the Asia-Pacific, oppose a new Cold War, and maintain regional peace and stability. They also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Qin Gang said that China will stay committed to promoting peace talks, and stands ready to keep communication and coordination with Russia, so as to make a tangible contribution to a political settlement of the crisis. Lavrov said that Russia attaches great importance to China’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, agrees with China’s principled position, and stands ready to keep close communication with China in a candid manner.
The SCO Foreign Ministers meeting was held on May 5. Addressing his colleagues, Qin Gang said that the world today is faced with multiple crises and challenges, including the resurgence of the Cold War, surging countercurrents of unilateralism and protectionism, and the emergence of power politics. The SCO is an important constructive force in international and regional affairs, and the more complex the international situation is, the more necessary it is to firmly carry forward the Shanghai Spirit and build a closer SCO community with a shared future.
He went on to make a five-point proposal to:
- Adhere to strategic autonomy and strengthen solidarity and mutual trust. All parties should oppose the attempts of external forces to interfere in regional affairs and plot “color revolutions”.
- Deepen security cooperation and safeguard regional peace.
- Advocate openness and inclusiveness and promote interconnected development.
- Pursue fairness and justice and improve global governance.
- Enhance mechanism building with a long-term view. All parties need to complete the accession of Iran and Belarus to the SCO in an orderly way.
Following the Foreign Ministers meeting, Qin Gang continued with a visit to Pakistan, beginning the same day. Meeting the Chinese Foreign Minister, Pakistan President Arif Alvi said that, the more the international situation undergoes profound changes, the more necessary it is to forge a close and solid Pakistan-China friendship and carry forward the fine tradition of frequent exchanges between the two countries. He praised China’s support and assistance to Pakistan, including the recent evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Sudan as a result of the conflict in that country. He looked forward to advancing the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and noted that Pakistan stands ready to work with China to promote peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan. Qin Gang noted that China is also ready to help Pakistan revive its economy and improve people’s well-being.
The same day, in an event that echoed his emphasis on the younger generation when he met with Dr. Kotnis’s family members in India the previous day, Qin Gang, together with Pakistan’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hina Rabbani Khar, attended the unveiling ceremony of the Foreign Service Academy of Pakistan in Islamabad, and interacted and communicated with young diplomats of China and Pakistan. The Foreign Service Academy was rebuilt on the previous compound of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan.
Qin Gang said that the China-Pakistan friendship has a long history, a profound foundation, fruitful results and bright prospects. It is a good example of state-to-state relations, a living textbook that should be studied, and a good story that everyone should try to tell well. He pointed out that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. The collective rise of China, Pakistan and other developing countries has had a profound impact on the international landscape and world order. China advocates that all countries should stick to independence and follow the development paths suited to their national conditions, and calls for mutual respect, equality and win-win cooperation among countries. China does not seek self-interests, does not put its own interests first, does not impose its own system and culture on others, and does not bully countries smaller in size with less power. The young diplomats of China and Pakistan should tell right from wrong, act in line with the trend of the times and the aspirations of the people of all countries, and oppose erecting barriers, inciting confrontation and stoking “a new Cold War”.
Qin Gang said that the China-Pakistan community with a shared future is not diplomatic rhetoric but has profound historical roots, solid public support and strong practical necessity. The “ironclad” friendship between China and Pakistan has become part of the DNA of the two peoples. He stressed that the relay baton of China-Pakistan friendship has been passed to the younger generation of the two countries. He hoped that the young diplomats of China and Pakistan will hold high aspirations and keep a global vision, work side by side and continue working hard, carry forward the great cause of China-Pakistan friendship, uphold justice, do the right thing and take the right path, and strive for world peace, justice and progress.
The next day, Qin Gang held the fourth round China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers Strategic Dialogue with his counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He said that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners, and bilateral relations have withstood the test of time and remained rock-solid.
Noting that Pakistan regards China as an eternal friend, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that it is the consensus of various Pakistani political parties and all walks of life to consolidate the traditional friendship between Pakistan and China, and deepening Pakistan-China friendship and cooperation is the cornerstone and remains at the center of Pakistan’s foreign policy. The Pakistani side firmly opposes any attempt to contain China, firmly believes that China will continue to develop and achieve success, and will always stand with China. Pakistan supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and appreciates China facilitating the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Pakistan stands ready to work with China to strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral institutions, to jointly combat terrorism and address global challenges including climate change.
Following their strategic dialogue, the two foreign ministers jointly met the press. Regarding expectations for the fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue, to be held later that day, Qin Gang pointed out that China, Afghanistan and Pakistan are friendly neighboring countries linked by mountains and rivers. In particular, Afghanistan and Pakistan, sharing a long border of more than 2,600 kilometers, are inseparable neighbors, brothers sharing weal and woe, and a community with a shared future. Qin expressed his hope that the two sides will adhere to good-neighborliness and friendship, and find solutions to respective differences through dialogue and consultations.
He said that, at the meeting, China expects to increase good-neighborliness and mutual trust among the three countries in the spirit of mutual respect, candidness and friendship, mutual benefit and win-win results, promote the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, explore the advancement of cooperation in such fields as trade, investment and connectivity, enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges among the three parties, expand common interests, and build closer and more friendly relationships as neighbors and partners. China is ready to strengthen counter-terrorism and security cooperation with Afghanistan and Pakistan, and to join efforts to firmly combat terrorist forces including the East Turkestan Islamic Movement and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, so as to defend regional security and stability.
Qin Gang added that China and Pakistan actively support peaceful reconstruction in Afghanistan and hope that the Afghan Taliban will build an inclusive government and exercise moderate governance, coexist with neighboring countries in harmony, and in particular, heed neighboring countries’ security concerns and take stronger measures to crack down on various terrorist forces in Afghanistan.
Referring to the United States, he emphasized the call on the country primarily responsible for the Afghan situation to shoulder its responsibility in real earnest, and take more concrete actions to help Afghanistan realize peace, stability, and improvement of people’s livelihood, instead of continuing to freeze the assets of the Afghan people and imposing unilateral sanctions on the country.
Qin Gang also had a bilateral meeting with Amir Khan Muttaqi, Acting Foreign Minister of the Afghan Interim Government, established by the Taliban.
Qin Gang said that China and Afghanistan are traditionally friendly neighbors connected by mountains and rivers. The two countries have been supporting, understanding and trusting each other. No matter how international and regional situations evolve, China will always stand firmly with the Afghan people and support Afghanistan in pursuing a development path that suits its national conditions. China will, as always, respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, deepen China-Afghanistan cooperation in various fields, and help Afghanistan realize self-reliance, peace, stability, development and prosperity at an early date.
Amir Khan Muttaqi said that Afghanistan attaches great importance to developing relations with China and will never allow any force to use the Afghan territory for anti-China activities. Afghanistan hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in such fields as economy, trade, cultural and people-to-people exchanges and infrastructure development within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.
At the tripartite Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue between China, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Qin Gang said that China always attaches importance to developing friendly relations with Afghanistan and Pakistan, and stands ready to join hands with Afghanistan and Pakistan through bilateral and trilateral cooperation mechanisms. He emphasized the importance of firmly opposing any form of terrorism, rejecting support for or the use terrorism and “double standards” on fighting terrorism.
The three foreign ministers had candid and in-depth exchanges on such issues as good-neighborliness and mutual trust, security cooperation and counter-terrorism, connectivity and trade and investment, and reached consensus on a number of issues. They agreed to uphold good-neighborliness and friendship, deepen political mutual trust, respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and properly handle conflicts and differences through equal consultation.
China and Pakistan noted that they support the Afghan interim government in strengthening capacity building to better cope with the terrorist threats. The Afghan side briefed on its domestic security situation and counter-terrorism efforts, and stressed that it will not allow any forces to use Afghanistan’s territory for activities against China and Pakistan.
The three parties agreed to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, agriculture, poverty reduction, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges, advance the Belt and Road cooperation, support the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, promote connectivity among the three countries and the region, and improve the cross-border trade system, with a view to enhancing economic integration among the three countries and achieving sustainable development.
The following reports were originally published on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
Qin Gang Meets with Special Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General on Myanmar Noeleen Heyzer
On May 1, 2023, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met in Beijing with Special Envoy of the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General on Myanmar Noeleen Heyzer.
Qin Gang said that China and Myanmar are close neighbors linked by mountains and rivers, and China hopes more than any other country that Myanmar will realize stability and development. With internal and external factors intertwined, the Myanmar issue is complex and has no “quick fix”. The international community should respect Myanmar’s sovereignty, and support all parties and factions in Myanmar in bridging differences and resuming the political transition process through political dialogue within the constitutional and legal frameworks. The international community should respect the mediation efforts of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and promote the implementation of ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus on Myanmar. Qin Gang stressed the need to act prudently and pragmatically to prevent the escalation of the conflict and spillover of the crisis, and expressed his hope that Madame Special Envoy will uphold an objective and fair position and play a role as a bridge. China is ready to continue to offer support and help to Madame Special Envoy in her effort of the mediation.
Noeleen Heyzer said that the settlement of the Myanmar issue should be led by Myanmar, and that the will of the country’s people should be respected. Dialogue cannot change the past, but can change the future. The UN advocates dialogue to realize peace and security in Myanmar and promote common development and prosperity in the region, respects and safeguards human rights, and supports ASEAN in playing a positive role in the endeavor. The UN appreciates China’s important role in promoting the settlement of the Myanmar issue and hopes that China will continue to make positive contributions to Myanmar’s peace, stability and development.
Qin Gang Makes an Inspection Tour in the China-Myanmar Border Area in Yunnan
On May 2, 2023, during an inspection tour in the China-Myanmar border area in Yunnan, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang stressed the need to earnestly implement the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), maintain the stability at the China-Myanmar border, advance the friendship and cooperation between China and Myanmar, and open up new prospects of border-related and Myanmar-related work.
Qin Gang inspected on the ground the Jiegao Border, Mangman passage of the Wanding Port, the comprehensive exhibit center of Ruili Demonstration Area, and border communities of “One Village, Two Countries”, and took opinions and suggestions from those working at primary-level units and on the front line. Qin Gang said that Yunnan is at the forefront of Myanmar-related work and plays a unique role in promoting China-Myanmar relations. Qin Gang called for efforts to manage the border between China and Myanmar based on the rule of law, strengthen the learning, publicity and implementation of the National Land Boundary Law of China, improve cooperation between the Party, government, military, police and civilians to strengthen the border security, maintain the clarity of the boundary line and stability of the border area, and crack down on cross-border criminal activities. Qin Gang emphasized the efforts to coordinate frontier management, border trade development and bilateral relations, promote regular border trade and personnel exchanges between China and Myanmar, keep as many ports of entry open as possible, accelerate the construction of cross-border economic cooperation zones, and push forward the building of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor with a focus on industrial capacity cooperation and industrial park construction, to help boost the economic and social development of the two countries. Qin Gang called on Yunnan to leverage its unique advantage to do a good job in local foreign affairs under the leadership of the CPC Central Committee, in a bid to maintain peace and tranquility in the border area and safeguard the overall situation of China-Myanmar friendship.
Qin Gang Meets with Former Chairman of the Myanmar State Peace and Development Council Than Shwe
On May 2, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with former Chairman of the Myanmar State Peace and Development Council Than Shwe in Nay Pyi Taw.
Qin Gang appreciated Than Shwe for making important contributions to the development of China-Myanmar relations, and said that China always views and grows China-Myanmar relations from a strategic height, is always a trustworthy good neighbor, good friend and good partner of Myanmar, and always supports Myanmar in maintaining stability and promoting development. China respects Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, supports Myanmar in advancing its domestic peace process, and stands ready to continue actively providing assistance for Myanmar in safeguarding independence, maintaining political stability and realizing sustainable development, and work with Myanmar to jointly build a China-Myanmar community with a shared future.
Than Shwe said that the “pauk-phaw” friendship between Myanmar and China was forged by the leaders of the elder generations of the two countries and has been promoted by every generation of leaders of the two countries, and is deeply rooted in the hearts of the two peoples. Myanmar appreciates China’s consistent good-neighborliness and friendship with Myanmar and its strong support for Myanmar’s economic and social development. Than Shwe expressed hope that Myanmar and China will stay committed to carrying forward the “pauk-phaw” friendship, strengthen friendly cooperation, and work for more fruitful outcomes of bilateral relations.
Myanmar Leader Min Aung Hlaing Meets with Qin Gang
On May 2, 2023 local time, Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing met with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Nay Pyi Taw.
Qin Gang said that China and Myanmar are “pauk-phaw” brothers connected by the same mountains and rivers. China always attaches great importance to developing good-neighborly and friendly relations between China and Myanmar, and stands ready to work with Myanmar to follow through on the outcomes of President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Myanmar in 2020, jointly build a China-Myanmar community with a shared future, and take the lead in practicing the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, so as to promote the steady progress of China-Myanmar comprehensive strategic cooperation.
Qin Gang pointed out that China sincerely hopes for a stable situation and national development in Myanmar, supports Myanmar in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and with Myanmar’s characteristics, supports Myanmar in continuously advancing its political transition process, and supports all parties in Myanmar to properly handle differences and achieve reconciliation under the constitutional and legal framework. China believes that the international community should respect Myanmar’s sovereignty and play a constructive role in helping Myanmar achieve peace and reconciliation. China will continue to provide assistance within its capability for Myanmar’s development, accelerate key cooperation projects of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, and carry out projects on agriculture, education and health care, among others, for the benefit of Myanmar people.
Qin Gang said that China supports Myanmar in improving relations with Bangladesh, with related issues to be resolved through consultation. China is ready to work with the two countries to expand practical cooperation among China, Myanmar and Bangladesh.
Min Aung Hlaing said that over the 70-plus years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China, bilateral relations have always maintained the momentum of development and achieved fruitful outcomes. Myanmar is ready to work with China to further strengthen friendly cooperation between Myanmar and China, and actively build a Myanmar-China community with a shared future. Myanmar appreciates China for upholding an objective and just position on Myanmar-related issues, and welcomes a greater role played by China. Myanmar attaches importance to protecting the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Myanmar, and stands ready to cooperate with China to maintain tranquility in the border areas of the two countries.
During his visit to Myanmar, Qin Gang also met with former Chairman of the Myanmar State Peace and Development Council Than Shwe, and held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar Than Swe.
Qin Gang Holds Talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar Than Swe
On May 2, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar Than Swe in Nay Pyi Taw.
Qin Gang said that China and Myanmar are linked by mountains and waters and enjoy a profound “pauk-phaw” friendship. President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to Myanmar in 2020 has opened up a new era of building a China-Myanmar community with a shared future. China always views its good-neighborly and friendly relations with Myanmar from a strategic height, and stands ready to work with Myanmar to jointly implement the important outcomes of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Myanmar, deepen cooperation in various fields, and constantly promote further development of China-Myanmar comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
Qin Gang emphasized that China’s friendly policy towards Myanmar is for all the Myanmar people. China respects Myanmar’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, firmly supports Myanmar in safeguarding independence, maintaining political stability and achieving sustainable development, and supports Myanmar in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and with Myanmar characteristics to steadily advance its political transition process.
Qin Gang pointed out that China stands ready to strengthen communication and exchanges with various ministries and localities of Myanmar, expand bilateral cooperation in such fields as agriculture and border trade, and increase support for Myanmar’s economic development with a focus on the construction of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. Qin Gang said that China will implement its major aid projects in Myanmar to actively support Myanmar in improving people’s livelihood, and the two sides should enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges and deepen exchanges in cultural heritage protection and religions. China is ready to work with Myanmar and Bangladesh to jointly promote the construction of the China-Myanmar-Bangladesh Economic Corridor for visible outcomes.
Than Swe said that Myanmar and China enjoy profound friendship, and Myanmar is firmly committed to the one-China policy, supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by China, and firmly supports China on issues concerning China’s core interests. Myanmar is very much looking forward to working with China to deepen cooperation in the fields including agriculture, transportation, energy and connectivity, actively push forward the construction of landmark projects of the Myanmar-China Economic Corridor and implement more livelihood projects to benefit the two peoples. Myanmar is ready to work with China to jointly safeguard the security and stability in the border areas, and hopes to work with China and Bangladesh to push forward the construction of the Myanmar-China-Bangladesh Economic Corridor.
Qin Gang meets with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar
On May 4, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Goa.
Qin Gang said that as the two most populous developing countries in the world, both China and India are in a critical period of achieving modernization. The two countries should draw experience and lessons from history, steer bilateral relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, respect and learn from each other, contribute to each other’s success, pursue a new path of living in harmony, peaceful development and common revitalization between neighboring major countries, so as to boos their respective national rejuvenation and inject stability and positive energy into world peace and development. China is ready to work with India to carry out bilateral consultations and exchanges, step up dialogue and cooperation within multilateral frameworks, and deepen coordination and collaboration on international and regional issues, so as to bring China-India relations back on the track of sound and stable development.
Qin Gang pointed out that the China-India border situation is generally stable. The two sides should continue to implement the important common understandings reached between leaders of the two countries, consolidate existing outcomes, strictly abide by relevant agreements and protocols, work to ease and cool down the border situation, and maintain sustained peace and tranquility in the border areas.
Subrahmanyam Jaishankar briefed Qin Gang on India’s views on India-China relations, noting that India and China need to strengthen cooperation in many areas. India hopes to continue to work with China to maintain peace and stability in the border areas through consultation.
Qin Gang said that China supports India in hosting a successful SCO summit and hopes that India, as the rotating chair of the SCO, will uphold a spirit of solidarity and cooperation, and play an active role in ensuring the success of the summit. The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual interest and concern.
Qin Gang Meets with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov
On May 4, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Goa.
Qin Gang said that since President Xi Jinping’s successful state visit to Russia not long ago, bilateral exchanges at various levels have become more active, and cooperation in various fields has rolled out across the board. China is ready to work with Russia to well implement important common understandings reached between the two heads of state, strengthen strategic communication, and consolidate and deepen cooperation in various fields.
Sergei Lavrov said that President Xi Jinping’s successful visit to Russia has injected strong impetus into the development of bilateral relations. Russia is ready to work with China to strengthen cooperation in various fields, and elevate bilateral relations to a higher level.
The two sides agreed to plan and make arrangements for next-stage exchanges between the two countries at the high level and all other levels, strengthen cooperation in economy and trade, deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and push for the facilitation of personnel exchanges between the two sides.
The two sides agreed to strengthen communication and coordination with other SCO member states, uphold the larger interest of SCO solidarity and cooperation, and build the SCO into a platform of mutually beneficial cooperation for member states.
The two sides agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation within such multilateral frameworks as BRICS, the Group of Twenty, and the United Nations, oppose various forms of hegemonism, safeguard common interests of emerging markets and developing countries, and uphold international fairness and justice.
The two sides agreed to strengthen communication and coordination in the Asia-Pacific, oppose a new Cold War, and maintain regional peace and stability.
The two sides exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Qin Gang said that China will stay committed to promoting peace talks, and stands ready to keep communication and coordination with Russia, so as to make tangible contribution to a political settlement of the crisis. Sergei Lavrov said that Russia attaches great importance to China’s Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, agrees with China’s principled position, and stands ready to keep close communication with China in a candid manner.
The two sides also exchanged views on other international and regional issues of mutual interest and concern.
Qin Gang Attends the SCO Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
On May 5, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Goa, India.
Qin Gang said that the world today is faced with multiple crises and challenges, including the resurgence of the Cold War, surging countercurrents of unilateralism and protectionism, and the emergence of power politics. The SCO is an important constructive force in international and regional affairs, and the more complex the international situation is, the more necessary it is to firmly carry forward the Shanghai Spirit and build a closer SCO community with a shared future.
Qin Gang made a five-point proposal. First, adhere to strategic autonomy and strengthen solidarity and mutual trust. All parties should firmly support each other in safeguarding sovereignty, security and development interests, and oppose the attempts of external forces to interfere in regional affairs and plot “color revolutions”. Second, deepen security cooperation and safeguard regional peace. All parties should continue to crack down hard on the three forces of terrorism, extremism and separatism, including the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), drug trafficking, and multinational organized crime, support Afghanistan in building a broad-based and inclusive political structure, and sternly combat all forms of terrorism. Third, advocate openness and inclusiveness, and promote interconnected development. All parties should firmly reject any act that undermines international economic and trade order and market rules, and defend the stable and smooth industrial and supply chains. China will take its hosting of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation this year as an important opportunity to work with all other parties to ensure that the road to opportunity and prosperity will enjoy broader prospects in a new decade. Fourth, pursue fairness and justice, and improve global governance. China is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with all other parties to jointly support the SCO in implementing such major initiatives as the building of a human community with a shared future, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, and join hands to promote the development of international order in a fairer and more reasonable manner. Fifth, enhance mechanism building with a long-term view. All parties need to complete the accession of Iran and Belarus to the SCO in an orderly way, promote the better adaptation of the SCO to the changing situation, and make the SCO more cohesive, effective, and influential.
Qin Gang emphasized that China is ready to further expand cooperation with other member states, join hands on the path to national development and rejuvenation, and continue to make concerted efforts to build a human community with a shared future.
All participating parties spoke highly of the contribution made by the SCO, as an important platform for regional cooperation, to promoting regional security and development, and agreed to further strengthen security cooperation, and jointly combat terrorism, separatism, drug making and trafficking, and cyber crimes. All parties agreed to advance cooperation in such fields as transportation, energy, finance, investment, free trade, and digital economy, promote regional connectivity, deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and realize common development. All parties also agreed to strengthen cooperation on environmental protection, jointly respond to climate change, and promote sustainable development. All parties expressed their support to Afghanistan in achieving national stability and reconstruction and to the SCO in strengthening cooperation with the United Nations (UN) and BRICS countries, among others, to safeguard the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and defend multilateralism. All parties agreed to strengthen the capacity building of the SCO Secretariat and regional counter-terrorism institutions, advance the SCO membership expansion process in an orderly manner, and further elevate international influence of the SCO.
The meeting has made full preparations for the SCO Summit to be hosted in New Delhi this summer.
Pakistani President Arif Alvi Meets with Qin Gang
On May 5, 2023 local time, Pakistani President Arif Alvi met with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang in Islamabad.
Alvi asked Qin Gang to convey his sincere greetings to President Xi Jinping. He said that the Pakistan-China friendship is rooted in the profound traditional friendship between the people of the two countries. The more the international situation undergoes profound changes, the more necessary it is to forge a close and solid Pakistan-China friendship and carry forward the fine tradition of frequent exchanges between the two countries. Pakistan wholeheartedly appreciates China’s strong support for the country’s pandemic response and post-disaster reconstruction, as well as the evacuation of Pakistani nationals from Sudan. Pakistan is firmly committed to the one-China policy and supports China in sovereignty, territorial integrity and other issues concerning its core interests. Pakistan looks forward to working with China to advance the development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and deepen cooperation in agriculture, connectivity, and information technology. Pakistan will do its utmost to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Pakistan and stands ready to work with China to promote peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan.
Qin Gang conveyed President Xi Jinping’s cordial greetings to Alvi. He said that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners, with consolidating and developing the “ironclad” friendship being the priority of successive governments of both countries. China has always firmly stood with Pakistan, supported Pakistan’s unity, stability, development and prosperity, and backed Pakistan’s efforts to safeguard national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. China is ready to join hands with Pakistan to implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, jointly fend off external risks and challenges, and take solid steps to advance the building of a China-Pakistan community with a shared future.
Qin Gang pointed out that China is ready to work with Pakistan to advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, accelerate the development of the CPEC, and deepen cooperation in such fields as industry, agriculture, information technology, and disaster prevention and mitigation. China is also ready to help Pakistan revive its economy and improve people’s well-being. Noting that the two sides should strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, Qin Gang said more excellent students of Pakistan are welcome to China for study. China is ready to work with Pakistan to strengthen communication and coordination on the Afghan issue, promote peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan, and help maintain regional stability and development.
Qin Gang: We Hope Young Diplomats of China and Pakistan Will Hold High Aspirations and Continue Working Hard to Carry Forward the Great Cause of China-Pakistan Friendship
On May 5, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang attended the unveiling ceremony of the Foreign Service Academy of Pakistan in Islamabad, and interacted and communicated with young diplomats of China and Pakistan. Pakistan’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hina Rabbani Khar was present. The Foreign Service Academy of Pakistan was rebuilt on the previous compound of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan.
With full passion and vivid words, the young diplomats of China and Pakistan shared their views on and experience in carrying forward the “ironclad” friendship between China and Pakistan. Qin Gang spoke highly of the mission and responsibility of carrying forward the China-Pakistan friendship undertaken by the young diplomats of the two countries and praised that the cause of the China-Pakistan friendship will be carried forward by future generations and embrace a bright future.
Qin Gang said that the China-Pakistan friendship has a long history, a profound foundation, fruitful results and bright prospects. It is a good example of state-to-state relations, a living textbook that should be studied and a good story that everyone should try to tell well. He called on the young diplomats, as masters of the cause of China-Pakistan friendship, to have a sense of the times, a sense of mission and a sense of urgency, and lose no time in acting as both doers and advocates of China-Pakistan friendship, telling stories of China-Pakistan friendship well and amplifying the common voice of China and Pakistan.
Qin Gang pointed out that the world today is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. The collective rise of China, Pakistan and other developing countries has had a profound impact on the international landscape and world order. China advocates that all countries should stick to independence and follow the development paths suited to their national conditions, and calls for mutual respect, equality and win-win cooperation among countries. China does not seek self-interests, does not put its own interests first, does not impose its own system and culture on others, and does not bully countries smaller in size with less power. China advocates that disputes between countries should be peacefully resolved through dialogue and consultation rather than resorting to force or the threat of force, and that all countries should join hands to address global challenges, advance the building of an open, inclusive, clean, and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity, and build a human community with a shared future. A modernized China will strengthen the force for world peace and justice. The young diplomats of China and Pakistan should see through the trend, tell right from wrong, act in line with the trend of the times and the aspirations of the people of all countries, and oppose erecting barriers, inciting confrontation and stoking “a new Cold War”.
Qin Gang said that the China-Pakistan community with a shared future is not diplomatic rhetoric but has profound historical roots, solid public support and strong practical needs. The “ironclad” friendship between China and Pakistan has been part of the DNA of the two peoples. The risks and challenges facing the world today are increasing, but true gold doesn’t fear the test of fire. The greater the pressure, the more it can demonstrate the value of the “ironclad” China-Pakistan friendship; the greater the pressure, the more China and Pakistan need to pull together in times of trouble, strengthen communication, coordination and cooperation, and jointly achieve common development and progress. China and Pakistan must redouble their efforts to ensure the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, in a bid to bring more and better benefits to the two peoples. The two sides should also strengthen coordination and cooperation in international affairs.
Qin Gang stressed that relay baton of China-Pakistan friendship has been passed to the younger generation of the two countries. He hopes that the young diplomats of China and Pakistan will hold high aspirations and keep a global vision, work side by side and continue working hard, carry forward the great cause of China-Pakistan friendship, uphold justice, do the right thing and take the right path, and strive for world peace, justice and progress.
Qin Gang Holds the Fourth Round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
On May 6, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang held the fourth round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Islamabad.
Qin Gang said that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners, and bilateral relations have withstood the test of time and remained rock-solid. China highly appreciates Pakistan’s valuable support on issues concerning China’s core interests, and will, as always, firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, back Pakistan in fighting terrorism, and champion Pakistan in maintaining unity and stability, achieving development and prosperity, and playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs.
Qin Gang noted that China is ready to work with Pakistan to implement the important common understandings reached between leaders of the two countries, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, strengthen strategic communication, and advance all-round cooperation between China and Pakistan, so as to add new impetus to the development of bilateral relations and bring stability and positive energy to the region and the world. Both sides should promote the high-quality development of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), expand cooperation in fields including industry, agriculture, mining, science and technology and information technology, foster new growth drivers of the CPEC, and deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges. China will continue to do what it can to support Pakistan in accelerating development and maintaining financial stability. China is ready to deepen cooperation with Pakistan in security capacity building and security system, and expects Pakistan to continuously take the strictest measures to ensure the security and safety of Chinese nationals, projects and institutions in Pakistan.
Qin Gang said that China is ready to work with Pakistan to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative in Pakistan first and strengthen coordination with Pakistan within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, firmly safeguarding international fairness and justice, as well as common interests of developing countries.
Noting that Pakistan regards China as an eternal friend, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that it is the consensus of various Pakistani political parties and all walks of life to consolidate the traditional friendship between Pakistan and China, and deepening Pakistan-China friendship and cooperation is the cornerstone and remains at the center of Pakistan’s foreign policy. The Pakistani side appreciates China’s assistance in evacuating Pakistani nationals from Sudan and China’s great help in its fight against floods. The Pakistani side firmly opposes any attempt to contain China, firmly believes that China will continue to develop and achieve success, and will always stand with China. Pakistan remains firmly committed to the one-China policy, and firmly supports China on all issues related to China’s core interests. Pakistan expects to closely cooperate with China to jointly advance the CPEC development, strengthen cooperation in fields including agriculture, trade, finance, connectivity, cultural exchanges, counter-terrorism and defense, and promote the Pakistan-China all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to enter a new era. The Pakistani side will do its utmost to hunt the suspects of the China-related terrorist attacks, and crack down hard on terrorist organizations such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement and the Baloch Liberation Army, to ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects and institutions in Pakistan. Pakistan supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and appreciates China facilitating the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran. Pakistan stands ready to work with China to strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral institutions, to jointly combat terrorism and address global challenges including climate change.
The two sides also had in-depth exchanges of views on strategic issues of mutual interest and concern.
Qin Gang: Build Closer and More Friendly Relationships as Neighbors and Partners
On May 6, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari jointly met the press in Islamabad.
When asked by a journalist about China’s expectations of the upcoming fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue, Qin Gang said that the fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue is the first foreign ministers’ dialogue held by the three parties since the major changes in the Afghan situation in 2021, and marks the restart of the trilateral cooperation mechanism among China, Afghanistan and Pakistan. As an important platform for carrying out exchanges and cooperation related to the Afghan issue, the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue is conducive to pooling consensus among countries in the region on the Afghan issue, and safeguarding regional peace and stability.
Qin Gang pointed out that China, Afghanistan and Pakistan are friendly neighboring countries linked by mountains and rivers. In particular, Afghanistan and Pakistan, sharing long boundaries of more than 2600 kilometers, are inseparable neighbors, brothers sharing weal and woe, and a community with a shared future. Qin expressed his hope that the two sides will adhere to good-neighborliness and friendship, and find solutions to respective differences through dialogue and consultations.
Qin Gang said that China expects to increase good-neighborliness and mutual trust among the three countries in the spirit of mutual respect, candidness and friendship, mutual benefit and win-win results through the meeting, promote the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, explore the advancement of cooperation in such fields as trade, investment and connectivity, enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges among the three parties, expand common interests, and build closer and more friendly relationships as neighbors and partners. China is ready to strengthen counter-terrorism and security cooperation with Afghanistan and Pakistan, and join efforts to firmly combat terrorist forces including the East Turkestan Islamic Movement and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, so as to defend regional security and stability.
Qin Gang noted that China and Pakistan actively support peaceful reconstruction in Afghanistan and hope that the Afghan Taliban will build an inclusive government and exercise moderate governance, coexist with neighboring countries in harmony, and in particular, heed neighboring countries’ security concerns and take stronger measures to crack down on various terrorist forces in Afghanistan.
Qin Gang emphasized the call on the country primarily responsible for the Afghan situation to shoulder its responsibility in real earnest, and take more concrete actions to help Afghanistan realize peace, stability, and improvement of people’s livelihood, instead of continuing to freeze the assets of the Afghan people and impose unilateral sanctions on Afghanistan.
Qin Gang: Implement the Important Common Understandings Reached by Leaders of the Two Countries, and Speed up China-Pakistan All-round Cooperation
On May 6, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang and Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari jointly met the press after co-chairing the fourth round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad.
Qin Gang said that China and Pakistan, as all-weather strategic cooperative partners, are committed to building a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era. The iron-clad friendship between China and Pakistan is a valued asset created by history and also a shared acknowledgement of the two peoples. China appreciates Pakistan’s political support on issues related to China’s core interests and major concerns. China will, as always, firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity, finding a development path suited to its national conditions, pursuing unity, stability, prosperity and strength, and playing its due role in global and regional affairs.
Qin Gang noted that he and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari agreed to resume communication at all levels and mechanism consultations across the board in the post-pandemic era, implement the important common understandings reached by leaders of the two countries, and speed up China-Pakistan all-round cooperation.
The two sides agreed to accelerate major projects of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), plan and conduct industrial cooperation, and actively expand cooperation in new areas including agriculture, technology and new energy, in a bid to help Pakistan achieve higher-quality and more sustainable development.
The two sides agreed to track down and severely punish the culprits in Chinese-targeted terrorist attacks, further deepen security and counter-terrorism cooperation, and enhance collaboration in regional counter-terrorism affairs.
The two sides agreed to strengthen cultural and people-to-people exchanges to bring the two peoples closer.
The two sides agreed to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative and other initiatives in Pakistan first, strengthen multilateral coordination and cooperation, and oppose the Cold War mentality, zero-sum game and bloc confrontation. The two sides also called for resolving differences through dialogue and consultation, jointly safeguarding international fairness and justice, promoting the cause of world peace and development, and joining hands to build a human community with a shared future.
Qin Gang Meets with Acting Foreign Minister of the Afghan Interim Government Amir Khan Muttaqi
On May 6, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Acting Foreign Minister of the Afghan Interim Government Amir Khan Muttaqi in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Qin Gang said that China and Afghanistan are traditionally friendly neighbors connected by mountains and rivers. The two countries have been supporting, understanding and trusting each other. No matter how international and regional situations evolve, China will always stand firmly with the Afghan people and support Afghanistan in pursuing a development path that suits its national conditions. China will, as always, respect Afghanistan’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, deepen China-Afghanistan cooperation in various fields, and help Afghanistan realize self-reliance, peace, stability, development and prosperity at an early date.
Qin Gang emphasized that Afghanistan should earnestly fulfill its commitment to fighting terrorism, resolutely crack down on terrorist forces, including the East Turkistan Islamic Movement, and ensure the safety and security of Chinese personnel and institutions in Afghanistan. China will continue to advance the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral dialogue and cooperation based on the principles of equal consultation, practical cooperation and friendship, mutual benefit and win-win results.
Amir Khan Muttaqi said that Afghanistan attaches great importance to developing relations with China and will never allow any force to use the Afghan territory for anti-China activities. Afghanistan hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in such fields as economy, trade, cultural and people-to-people exchanges and infrastructure development within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative to safeguard the common interests of the two sides and benefit the two peoples. Afghanistan hopes to live in harmony with China, Pakistan and other neighboring countries and is ready to actively promote Afghanistan-China-Pakistan trilateral cooperation to promote regional stability and prosperity.
Qin Gang Attends the Fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue
On May 6, 2023 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang attended the fifth China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue in Islamabad, Pakistan. Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari chaired the dialogue, and Acting Foreign Minister of the Afghan Interim Government Amir Khan Muttaqi attended the dialogue.
Qin Gang said that the successful hosting of the foreign ministers’ dialogue marks the restart of the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation mechanism. China, Afghanistan and Pakistan are traditionally friendly neighbors connected by mountains and waters. China always attaches importance to developing friendly relations with Afghanistan and Pakistan, and stands ready to join hands with Afghanistan and Pakistan through bilateral and trilateral cooperation mechanisms to implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, share development opportunities, meet security challenges together, jointly advance the progress of civilizations, set an example of cooperation among neighbors, through mini-multilateralism and on hotspot issues, and defend and promote regional stability and prosperity.
Qin Gang emphasized that China is ready to strengthen counter-terrorism and security cooperation with Afghanistan and Pakistan, uphold the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security, firmly oppose any form of terrorism, reject supporting or using terrorism and “double standards” on fighting terrorism, and strengthen cooperation on combating terrorism with greater efforts. The three parties should strengthen cooperation on counter-terrorism and security affairs under regional multilateral frameworks including the mechanism of coordination and cooperation among Afghanistan’s neighboring countries. Qin expressed his hope that Afghanistan and Pakistan will further strengthen safety and security measures for Chinese nationals, institutions and projects.
Qin Gang noted that China is ready to strengthen strategic communication and policy coordination among the three countries through the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral cooperation channels, and enhance good-neighborliness, friendship and strategic mutual trust. China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Afghanistan and Pakistan in development and connectivity, deepen the bond and connection of interests among the three countries, share each other’s development opportunities and achievements, and increase cultural and people-to-people exchanges among the three countries.
Amir Khan Muttaqi and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan cooperation is of great significance to advancing regional peace and prosperity. Afghanistan and Pakistan are ready to actively promote trilateral cooperation, formulate a roadmap for cooperation in such fields as politics, security and economy, safeguard the common interests of the three countries, achieve mutual benefit and win-win results, and bring benefits to the people of the three countries and other countries in the region.
The three foreign ministers had candid and in-depth exchanges on such issues as good-neighborliness and mutual trust, security cooperation and counter-terrorism, connectivity and trade and investment, and reached a series of consensus.
The three parties agreed to uphold good-neighborliness and friendship, deepen political mutual trust, respect each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, properly handle conflicts and differences through equal consultation, oppose interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, reject illegal unilateral sanctions against Afghanistan, and object to all acts that undermine regional peace and stability.
The three parties agreed to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation, take multi-pronged measures, address both symptoms and root causes, and jointly respond to terrorism threats based on the principle of mutual respect and treating each other as equals. China and Pakistan support the Afghan interim government in strengthening capacity building to better cope with the terrorism threats. The Afghan side briefed on its domestic security situation and counter-terrorism efforts, and stressed that it will not allow any forces to use Afghanistan’s territory for activities against China and Pakistan.
The three parties agreed to restart the dialogue mechanism under the framework of the foreign ministers’ dialogue, and strengthen exchanges and cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, agriculture, poverty reduction, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges, advance the Belt and Road cooperation, support the extension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan, promote connectivity among the three countries and the region, and improve the cross-border trade system, with a view to enhancing economic integration among the three countries and achieving sustainable development.
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