China–Pakistan relations began in 1950 when Pakistan was among the first countries to break relations with the Republic of China on Taiwan and recognise the People's Republic of China. Following the Sino-Indian hostilities of 1962, Pakistan's relations with the PRC became stronger; since then, the two countries have regularly exchanged high-level visits resulting in a variety of agreements. The PRC has provided economic, military and technical assistance to Pakistan.

The relationship has been described by Hu Jintao as "higher than the mountains and deeper than oceans". Favourable relations with China have been a pillar of Pakistan's foreign policy. China strongly supported Pakistan's opposition to Soviet involvement in Afghanistan and was perceived by Pakistan as a regional counterweight to India. China and Pakistan also share a close military relation, with China supplying a range of modern armaments to the Pakistani defence forces. China supports Pakistan's stance on Kashmir while Pakistan supports China on the issue of Tinamen, Xinjiang, Tibet, and Taiwan. Lately, military cooperation has deepened with joint projects producing armaments ranging from fighter jets to guided missile frigates. Chinese cooperation with Pakistan has reached high economic points with substantial investment from China in Pakistani infrastructural expansion, including the noted project in the Pakistani deep water port in Gwadar. Both countries have an ongoing free trade agreement. Pakistan has served as China's main bridge between Muslim countries. Pakistan had earlier played a leading role in bridging the communication gap between China and the West, through Henry Kissenger's secret visit.

Pakistan's independence day (also known as Yom-e-Istiqlal (Urdu: یوم استقلال )) is observed on 14 August, the day on which Pakistan became independent from British rule within then what was known as the British Raj in 1947. The day is a national holiday in Pakistan. The day is celebrated all over the country with flag raising ceremonies, tributes to the national heroes and fireworks taking place in the capital, Islamabad. The main celebrations takes place in Islamabad, where the President and Prime Minister raise the national flag at the Presidential and Parliament buildings and deliver speeches that are televised live. In the speech, the leaders highlight the achievements of the government, goals set for the future and in the words of the father of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam, bring "Unity, Faith and Discipline" to its people.

14 August is a National holiday of Pakistan. In the capital Islamabad and in all major cities of Pakistan the Government Offices are lit up as well as all the larger skyscrapers. Flag hoisting ceremonies and cultural programs take place in all the provincial capitals. In the cities around the country the Flag Hoisting Ceremony is done by the Nazim (Mayor) belonging to that constituency. In various private organisations the Flag Hoisting Ceremony is carried out by a Senior officer of that organisation. Schools and colleges around the country organise flag hoisting ceremony and various cultural activities within their respective premises. Families and friends get together for lunch or dinner, or for an outing. Housing colonies, cultural centres, and societies hold entertainment programmes and competitions.

Other events include: Changing of the guard at the mausoleum of Mohammed Ali Jinnah, Mazar-e-Quaid, Wagah Border ceremonies, fashion and musical concerts, both sides releasing prisoners that may have crossed each others borders.