Besham, Pakistan — The majestic peaks of the Karakoram range have long stood as a symbol of the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan. For Rehmat Ali, a doctor from the Besham district of Shangla, the Karakoram Highway (KKH) is more than just a roadway; it’s the thread that weaves his family’s history with the evolving story of two nations.
The KKH, often called the Friendship Highway in China, was initiated in 1966 and completed in 1979. Stretching over 1,032 kilometers from Xinjiang in the Chinese mainland to Thakot in Pakistan, it stands as a monumental feat of engineering achieved through close cooperation between the two countries.
In 1968, the highway extension reached Rehmat’s hometown. His father, then a spirited 10-year-old boy, found himself drawn to the bustling activity of the project. Determined to contribute, he began assisting in the kitchen, cooking for the Chinese engineers who were diligently working to carve a path through the rugged terrain.
“My father used to tell me stories of how he felt a part of something bigger,” Rehmat recalls. “He couldn’t communicate with the engineers through language, but they shared smiles and gestures, building a bridge of understanding.”
Decades later, inspired by his father’s experiences, Rehmat pursued a career in medicine. When the opportunity arose to work as a doctor on the KKH relocation project at the Uchar Chinese Camp, he saw it as a chance to continue his family’s legacy.
“Working here is not just a job; it’s a connection to my heritage,” he says. “Every day, I am reminded of the friendship between our nations and how it has shaped lives, including my own.”
Rehmat provides medical care to both Pakistani and Chinese workers, ensuring the health and well-being of those contributing to the ongoing development of the highway. His role signifies the deepening ties and mutual respect that have grown since the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative in 2013.
“The cooperation between China and Pakistan has opened doors for many,” Rehmat notes. “It’s not just about infrastructure; it’s about people coming together, sharing knowledge, and building a better future.”
As the KKH continues to evolve, so does Rehmat’s story—a narrative of legacy, cooperation, and hope. His journey along the highway mirrors the broader journey of the two nations, united by shared goals and enduring friendship.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
