Mao Hailed as Architect of Pak-China Friendship on 50th Death Anniversary
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 10th Sep, 2026) Chinese leader Mao Zedong was on Thursday remembered for his role in building modern China and laying the foundations of enduring Pakistan-China friendship, as speakers at a ceremony marking his 50th death anniversary praised his political legacy.
The ceremony, organised by the Pakistan-China Institute, was attended by parliamentarians, policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, students, and scholars. Former National Assembly speaker Syed Fakhar Imam was the chief guest, while former foreign minister and ambassador to China Inamul Haq presided over the event.
Prominent journalist Hamid Mir and lawyer Salman Akram Raja also spoke at the gathering, while Senator Sitara Ayaz delivered the vote of thanks.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Chairman of the Pakistan-China Institute, described Mao as one of three “historical giants” of the 20th century who, through their leadership and vision, shaped the course of history. The other two, he said, were Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin and Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah.
He termed Mao the “builder of new China”, stating that during nearly a quarter-century of his leadership, Mao transformed Chinese society by ending feudal structures, expanding education, improving life expectancy, advancing women’s rights, and developing the country’s scientific and technological capabilities.
Senator Mushahid also described Mao as an “architect” of Pakistan-China friendship, noting that the Chinese leader had extended full support to Pakistan during the 1965 war with India. He further highlighted Mao’s support for causes like Kashmir and Palestine, and backing for liberation movements in Africa.
He pointed out three decisive moments in Mao’s leadership:
- 1935: Leading the Long March, preserving the Communist Party and the People’s Liberation Army.
- 1966: Launching the Cultural Revolution, aimed at preventing corruption within China’s political system.
- 1971: Opening diplomatic relations with the United States, altering global strategic balance.
Other speakers lauded Mao as a revolutionary, thinker, and philosopher, describing him as a selfless patriot whose political focus remained centred on the welfare of the Chinese people.
Mr. Fakhar Imam praised China’s governance model and stated that peace and political stability are key factors behind China’s development.
