In what appears to be a clear endorsement of the February 8 polls, China has congratulated Pakistan on its ‘successful elections,’ even as controversy brews over alleged rigging. Speaking at a regular press conference on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning commended Pakistan’s handling of the polls.
“As a close and friendly neighbour, China fully respects the choice of the Pakistani people and sincerely hopes that relevant parties of Pakistan will work together to uphold political solidarity and social stability after the elections and jointly open up a brighter future for the development of the country,” Ning said in response to a question posed by China News Service on Pakistan elections.
“China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners. China hopes to work with Pakistan to build on the traditional friendship, deepen practical cooperation in various areas, and accelerate the building of an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries,” the Chinese spokesperson added.
Answering a question about the absence of a decisive mandate, Ning said, “We noted that general elections in Pakistan are held in a generally steady and smooth manner and we fully respect the choice of the Pakistani people. We hope and believe that relevant parties of Pakistan will uphold solidarity, maintain stability and properly handle relevant issues to jointly open up a brighter future for the development of the country.”
The statement is viewed as support for Pakistan’s military establishment, countering US criticism of election integrity. “China’s statement is out of turn to calm down the controversy going on due to election rigging,” said top Pakistan govt sources. They told CNN-News18 that this endorsement challenges voices like Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Imran Khan, indicating China’s preference for stability over democratic processes.
It also signals the approval of Army Chief Gen Asim Munir’s leadership. While aimed at calming tensions in the debt-ridden country, China’s intervention underlines its strategic interests in its “all-weather” partner. The move also highlights tensions between China and the US regarding democratic norms and regional influence, potentially impacting future diplomatic relations between the countries.
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