China and Pakistan: good brothers and true friends.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China are time-tested strategic cooperative partners and the bilateral brotherly relations have witnessed new highs since the launch of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) some six years back. The current year is of special importance for the two countries as upcoming May 21 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan.

Ambassador of People's Republic of China in Islamabad Nong Rong exclusively talked to Daily Times on issues ranging from CPEC to Covid-19 cooperation as well as the baseless propaganda campaign unleashed by the Western nations who are not only jealous of Pakistan-China exemplary relations but are also fearful of China's unprecedented growth on the economic front and growing influence in the world affairs.

Q: US President Joe Biden has suggested launching an initiative by the so-called 'democratic' countries to counter China's Belt and Road initiative. How do you see this proposal at a time when Western nations are ganging up against China while fearing its unprecedented growth on the economic front and growing influence in the international affairs?

A: China sticks to develop relations with other countries based on mutual respect and equality, win-win cooperation, and is committed to building of a new type of international relations and a community with a shared future for mankind. The CPEC, being the pilot project under the BRI, has made remarkable progress in recent years, contributing significantly to Pakistan's economy, social development, and connectivity, with great benefit made to the country and the region.

The suggestion made by the US to band together democratic countries to fund infrastructure is by no means comparable to the BRI. It is in essence to pursue confrontation between blocs and targeting to the third country. This initiative is driven by "America First" mentality, which is significantly different with BRI serving as public good to benefit the local people. The US pursuit of Cold War mentality and confrontation between blocs are bound to be rejected as they run counter to the trend of the times and the common aspiration of regional countries.

Q: China-US relations are facing severe tests as President Joe Biden has taken an extraordinarily tough line with China. How do you see China's relation developing with the US under Biden?

A: Interaction between China and the US concerns global peace, stability, development and prosperity. With challenges in the era of globalization and the post-pandemic era, China and the US should have more dialogue and cooperation rather than game and confrontation. Both countries should fulfill obligations and responsibilities as major countries. China is willing to respond to the expectations of all parties and continue to make its...