(APP): Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi Tuesday said that China was ready to build partnerships with the Islamic world for the promotion of multilateralism and democracy in international relations as well as for unity and cooperation.
“China is ready to build four partnerships with Islamic countries. We should be partners of unity and cooperation… We need to be partners in development and revitalization… We need to be safe and stable partners,” Wang Yi said in his address as a special guest at the opening ceremony of the 48th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Council of Foreign Ministers here.
This is the first time for the Chinese foreign minister to attend the OIC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, which he said, fully demonstrated the sincere desire of China and the Islamic world to strengthen exchanges and cooperation and would surely push bilateral relations to a new level.
He said China was ready to work with Islamic countries to promote a multipolar world, democracy in international relations, and diversity of human civilizations, and make unremitting efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind.
Wang Yi said China would continue to support Islamic countries in applying Islamic wisdom to solve contemporary hotspot issues and firmly hold in our own hands the key to maintaining stability and promoting peace.
He told the gathering of foreign ministers from across the Muslim world that China would continue to stand firmly on the side of the Palestinian people and support the early convening of a more authoritative and representative international peace conference on the basis of the two-state solution to promote a comprehensive and just settlement of the issue.
He said China would respect the choice made by the Afghan people, support Afghanistan in achieving inclusive government and steady governance.
“On the Kashmir issue, we have once again heard the call of many Islamic friends. China shares the same aspiration,” he remarked.
Moreover, he said China supported Russia and Ukraine in continuing peace talks for the sake of a ceasefire, an end to war, and peace.
“We need to prevent humanitarian disasters and prevent the spillover of the Ukrainian crisis from affecting or harming the legitimate rights and interests of other regions and countries,” the Chinese foreign minister remarked.
He said China would continue to provide 300 million doses of vaccines to Islamic countries to help them build a defense of health. With high-quality belt and Road cooperation and joint implementation of global development initiatives as the twin engines, China would lead the trend of South-South cooperation.
He said over the years, China and the Muslim world had always respected and trusted each other and supported each other’s core concerns.
“We will never forget that Algeria and other countries jointly submitted a resolution, and nearly 30 Islamic countries firmly supported it, to help China restore its legal status in the UN. Similarly, China has never hesitated or been absent in its support for the Palestinian issue, which is of the greatest concern to the Islamic world,” Wang Yi commented.
He said after the COVID outbreak, Islamic countries immediately offered China valuable support, and China also provided 1.3 billion doses of vaccines and a large amount of anti-epidemic supplies to 50 Islamic countries in a timely manner.
To date, China has signed cooperation documents with 54 Islamic countries and carried out nearly 600 major projects involving 400 billion US dollars, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples, he added.
The Chinese foreign minister said both the Chinese civilization and the Islamic civilization had made great contributions to human civilization in history.
“They have been treated unfairly in modern times. Now they are joining hands on the road of development and rejuvenation. We should vigorously advocate equal-footing dialogue, exchanges, and mutual learning among civilizations, draw wisdom from each other’s time-honored civilizations, and jointly resist discrimination and clash of civilizations.”
He said the theme of the moot reflected the common aspiration of most countries in the world.
He suggested upholding exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, opposing the theory of “the superiority of civilizations”, the theory of “clash of civilizations”, and the distortion and smear of non-Western civilizations.
He also called for deepening preventive counter-terrorism and deradicalization cooperation, rejecting “double standards” in counter-terrorism, and opposing the linking terrorism with any particular ethnic group or religion.
As summer deepens across Pakistan, a much-awaited delight arrives with it—the mango season. Revered as the “King of Fruits,” the mango is more than just a seasonal treat; it is a symbol of Pakistan’s agricultural strength, cultural richness, and global identity.
A Natural Bond Between Pakistan and Mangoes
Pakistan ranks among the world’s leading mango-producing countries. The fertile lands of Punjab and Sindh, combined with an ideal climate, create perfect conditions for cultivating premium-quality mangoes. Regions like Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Mirpur Khas, and Hyderabad are internationally recognized for producing some of the finest varieties.
Iconic Varieties — Every Taste Tells a Story
Pakistan offers an extraordinary range of mango varieties, each with its own flavor profile, aroma, and texture:
Chaunsa — exceptionally sweet, juicy, and globally loved
Sindhri — large in size, aromatic, and smooth-textured
Anwar Ratol — small but intensely sweet and flavorful
Dussehri — soft, fragrant, and delicately textured
Langra — unique taste with a balanced sweet-tangy note
These varieties are cherished both locally and internationally, making Pakistani mangoes a global favorite.
Exports — Sharing Pakistan’s Sweetness with the World
Every year, Pakistan exports thousands of tons of mangoes to the Middle East, Europe, the United Kingdom, and North America. Their natural sweetness, rich aroma, and superior quality give them a competitive edge in international markets.
For overseas Pakistanis, mangoes are more than fruit—they are a taste of home, a memory of childhood, and a connection to their roots.
Agricultural Value and Farmers’ Dedication
Mango cultivation is a labor-intensive process that requires:
Careful orchard management
Protection from extreme weather
Timely harvesting
Proper packaging and logistics
Pakistani farmers are increasingly adopting modern techniques to improve yield and maintain global quality standards, ensuring sustainability and competitiveness.
Cultural Significance — More Than Just a Fruit
In Pakistan, mangoes are not merely eaten—they are celebrated:
Family gatherings often revolve around mango feasts
Traditional “mango parties” are a seasonal highlight
Generations share memories tied to this beloved fruit
Mangoes hold a special place in the country’s cultural fabric.
Health Benefits
Beyond their irresistible taste, mangoes offer numerous health benefits:
Rich in Vitamins A and C
Boost immunity
Aid digestion
Provide natural energy
A Season of Celebration
From June to August, Pakistan transforms into a vibrant mango hub:
Markets overflow with golden hues
The fragrance fills streets and homes
People travel far to buy the best quality mangoes
“This is not just a mango—it is the taste of Pakistan, reaching the world.”
Today, April 1, 2026, marks the 90th birth anniversary of Abdul Qadeer Khan — the renowned scientist widely celebrated as the “Father of Pakistan’s Nuclear Program.”
On this day, the nation remembers not just a scientist, but a symbol of determination, resilience, and national sovereignty. His name is deeply etched in the history of Pakistan as the man who transformed the country’s strategic future and strengthened its defense.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan was born on April 1, 1936, in Bhopal, then part of British India. After the partition of 1947, his family migrated to Pakistan, where his journey of excellence began.
With a strong passion for science and engineering, he pursued higher education in Europe, specializing in metallurgy and nuclear science. His academic journey equipped him with the expertise that would later change the destiny of Pakistan.
The Defining Mission
The turning point in Dr. Khan’s life came after the 1971 war, which exposed Pakistan’s strategic vulnerabilities. At a time when the nation needed strength and confidence, Dr. Khan stepped forward with a vision.
He returned to Pakistan and joined efforts to develop the country’s nuclear capability. Through his leadership, dedication, and scientific brilliance, Pakistan moved closer to achieving strategic deterrence.
Building a National Capability
Dr. Khan played a central role in establishing the Kahuta Research Laboratories, later named in his honor. His work focused on uranium enrichment, a critical component of nuclear technology.
Despite facing:
International pressure
Limited resources
Technological challenges
He and his team worked tirelessly, driven by a single goal: to ensure Pakistan’s security and independence.
A Historic Milestone
On May 28, 1998, Pakistan conducted its nuclear tests, becoming the first Muslim nuclear power and the seventh nuclear state in the world.
This historic achievement marked a defining moment in Pakistan’s history. It was seen as a demonstration of national strength and scientific capability, and Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan became a national hero.
A Complex but Powerful Legacy
Dr. Khan’s life was not without controversy. His later years were marked by international scrutiny and political challenges. However, within Pakistan, he remained a deeply respected figure.
For millions, he symbolized:
National dignity
Scientific achievement
Strategic independence
His contributions sparked important discussions about science, ethics, and national security.
A Human Story Behind the Scientist
Beyond his scientific achievements, Dr. Khan was known for his simplicity and connection with the people. He often spoke about education, self-reliance, and national pride.
He believed that the true strength of a nation lies not only in its defense but in the character and unity of its people.
Lessons for the Future
On his 90th birth anniversary, Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan’s life offers powerful lessons:
Vision can change destiny
Knowledge is power
Nations rise when their people believe in themselves
For the youth of Pakistan, his journey is a reminder that dedication and purpose can shape history.
Pakistan Day is being celebrated with great enthusiasm and national unity across the country today.
The nation is renewing its resolve today to demonstrate more hard work, unity and sacrifice for the development, stability and prosperity of Pakistan.
The day dawned with thirty-one-gun salute in the federal capital and twenty-one-gun salute in provincial capitals.
These salutes were given as a symbol of national dignity, sovereignty and the professional capabilities of the Pakistan’s armed forces.
After Fajr prayer, special prayers were offered for the security, development, prosperity and national unity of the country as well as for the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs.
The national flag was hoisted on important government buildings, which is a symbol of national dignity and cohesion.
On the occasion of Pakistan Day, the entire nation is united and adorned with the noble resolve to work together for the progress and prosperity of the country.
