BEIJING: Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin expressed deep condolences on Thursday over the passing of Pakistan’s former foreign minister Sartaj Aziz, hailing his outstanding contribution to China-Pakistan relations.
Aziz, also former finance minister and adviser to the prime minister on foreign affairs, passed away in Islamabad on Tuesday.
“Mr. Aziz was a seasoned politician, strategist and economic expert of Pakistan, and an old and good friend of the Chinese people,” Wang said at a regular news briefing.
Wang said that Aziz was dedicated to the prosperity of Pakistan, worked hard and passionately to promote China-Pakistan relations, and made outstanding contributions to China-Pakistan friendly cooperation, especially the launch and construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
“We express our deep condolences over the passing of Mr. Aziz and sincere sympathies to his family,” the spokesperson said.
Earlier, Former finance minister Sartaj Aziz passed away in Islamabad on Tuesday, according to government and PML-N officials. The PML-N announced his death in a post on social media platform X.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr Sartaj Aziz. A stalwart, a true icon and a towering figure! His contributions to the nation and towards the party will never be forgotten.”
Former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said Aziz passed away earlier in the evening in Islamabad.
“He lived a rare life of courage, dignity, and integrity; a life worth celebrating,” he said, adding that Aziz contributed and accomplished much in his life.
According to state-run Radio Pakistan, Aziz held senior positions at the Ministry of Finance and the Planning Commission, shaping economic policies that “steered Pakistan through crucial eras”.
PML-N Secretary General Ahsan Iqbal said Aziz was a veteran of the Pakistan movement and a “great asset” to the nation. “He will be missed very much. His services for the nation will always be remembered,” Iqbal added. President Dr Arif Alvi expressed his grief over the death and extended his condolences to Aziz’s family.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar lauded the deceased as an “experienced politician” and a “great asset” to the nation.
Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani said he was “deeply grieved” to learn about the death and praised the deceased as a “thorough gentleman”.
“He was an iconic figure who served Pakistan selflessly and with exemplary dedication. He will always be remembered for his intellectual prowess, integrity and kindness,” the foreign minister said. –Agencies
