Beijing: China has firmly denied recent media reports suggesting tensions over alleged mineral cooperation between Pakistan and the United States. Beijing stated that Pakistan has assured Chinese authorities that its evolving relationship with Washington will not undermine China’s interests or impact ongoing bilateral cooperation.
A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the enduring strength of the China-Pakistan partnership. “China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners,” the official said. “Our ironclad friendship has withstood the toughest of tests, and our strategic trust remains strong.”
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The clarification comes amid reports that Pakistan shared rare mineral samples with U.S. officials during recent high-level meetings. Responding to these claims, the Chinese spokesperson said Pakistan has clarified the materials were locally sourced gemstones of no strategic significance, not samples from Chinese-backed mining projects.
“These reports are either based on misinformation or are outright fabricated,” the spokesperson said. “They appear to be an attempt to sow discord between China and Pakistan.”
Beijing further confirmed that all three parties — China, Pakistan, and the U.S. — are in communication regarding mining-related discussions, and that Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency with China.
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The spokesperson also addressed speculation linking China’s recent rare earth export control measures to the Pakistan-U.S. talks. “These measures have no connection to Pakistan,” the official clarified. “They are part of China’s legal efforts to improve its export control system in line with global non-proliferation commitments and regional stability.”
China and Pakistan continue to collaborate closely on major infrastructure and mineral exploration projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Beijing’s statement underscores that it remains confident in Islamabad’s commitment to mutual strategic goals.