China's Rise in Focus: Speakers highlight CPC leadership, shared future vision

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan-China Economic and Cultural Council (PCECC) on Thursday hosted a high-level seminar titled “China’s Path to Modernization: The CPC’s Leadership, Vision & a Shared Future,” bringing together diplomats, policymakers, academics, business leaders, media representatives and youth to discuss China’s development trajectory.

The event was presided over by PCECC President Bayazeed Kasi, who in his opening remarks highlighted the importance of understanding China’s governance model for developing countries, including Pakistan. He said China’s rise was anchored in strategic planning, institutional strength and a people-centric approach.

Prominent speakers at the seminar included former Pakistan’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Zamir Akram, Bilal Khan Kakar, Sheikh Arsalan, Omer Malik and Awais Tariq, along with several other participants from diverse sectors. Concluding remarks were delivered by Air Vice Marshal Sarfaraz Khan, the guest of honour.

Speakers underscored the role of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in transforming the country’s socio-economic landscape, noting achievements such as poverty alleviation, rapid industrialisation, technological progress and sustained economic growth. They observed that China’s governance system, marked by long-term policy continuity, merit-based leadership and emphasis on public welfare, had significantly improved living standards.

The seminar also highlighted the impact of China’s development model on improving livelihoods, expanding access to education and healthcare, and promoting innovation-driven growth. Participants noted that China’s modernization represented a comprehensive transformation encompassing economic, social and institutional progress.

A key feature of the event was active participation by Pakistani youth, who shared perspectives on China’s development experience. Young scholars, including Dr Khurram Ilahi and Haris Malik, expressed appreciation for China’s disciplined and long-term approach to development, stressing the need to draw lessons for addressing regional challenges.

Discussions also focused on China’s future trajectory and its vision of building a “community with a shared future for mankind,” with speakers highlighting Beijing’s growing role in global affairs and its partnership with countries in the Global South.

The seminar concluded with participants reaffirming the longstanding Pakistan-China friendship and emphasising the need to deepen cooperation in trade, infrastructure, education and cultural exchanges, alongside strengthening people-to-people ties.