75 years of Pak–China ties: NA passes resolution as Chinese delegation visits lower house

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly on Wednesday unanimously adopted a resolution marking 75 years of Pakistan–China diplomatic relations, reaffirming support for strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The resolution was passed during a session held under the chair of Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

As a Chinese delegation entered the visitors’ gallery, members of the House thumped desks in a gesture of welcome.

Speaker Ayaz Sadiq formally greeted the delegation, while First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also extended a warm reception, going to the gallery to shake hands with members of the visiting delegation.

Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry moved the resolution, which congratulated both countries on completing 75 years of diplomatic relations and appreciated ongoing cooperation under CPEC.

The resolution stated that the House welcomed the Chinese delegation and acknowledged Pakistan–China efforts in strengthening strategic and economic ties. It added that the world would see an even stronger Pakistan–China friendship in the next 75 years.

Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, speaking in the House, said political differences between the government and opposition had been set aside for the occasion.

He said the opposition had ended its boycott to welcome the Chinese delegation, adding that Pakistan would never forget China’s support.

Following the proceedings held in honour of the Chinese delegation, the opposition staged a walkout, although members refrained from chanting slogans in respect of the guests.

The visiting delegation expressed satisfaction over the reception and goodwill extended by parliamentarians.

Pakistan’s crude oil import bill

During the question hour, the Petroleum Division informed the House that Pakistan’s crude oil import bill stood at more than $11.19 billion during fiscal year 2024–25.

It said that imported petroleum products accounted for 39 per cent of the country’s energy mix, while overall imports for the sector made up 15 per cent of Pakistan’s total import bill, which exceeded $70 billion during the fiscal year.

KElectric and power sector briefing

The Power Division also briefed lawmakers on key developments regarding K-Electric.

It informed the House that outstanding dues of K-Electric stood at Rs372 billion owed by the federal government, adding that despite the arrears, 2,000 megawatts of electricity were being supplied to the utility from the national grid.

Officials said that K-Electric’s installed generation capacity currently stands at around 2,400 megawatts.

They added that earlier electricity supply through interconnection stood at 1,000 megawatts, which has now been increased, with plans to further expand capacity to 3,000 megawatts in the future.