ISLAMABAD, 1 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and other distinguished guests attended a ceremony marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. During the ceremony, the national anthems of China and Pakistan were played, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other dignitaries standing respectfully in honour of both national anthems. The ceremony reflected the longstanding friendship and close relations between Pakistan and China. Senior government officials, diplomats and other prominent personalities also attended the event. The gathering provided an opportunity to commemorate China’s national day and highlight the strong bonds of friendship, cooperation and mutual respect between the two countries. The ceremony also underscored the importance attached by Pakistan to its longstanding partnership with China and the continued strengthening of bilateral relations in various fields. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has consistently described Pakistan-China relations as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, with both countries maintaining close cooperation in areas including trade, investment, infrastructure, development and regional connectivity.