ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari announced his upcoming visit to China next month to reconnect with old friends and hold discussions focused on further strengthening bilateral ties. He made this announcement during a state luncheon he hosted for Chinese Premier Li Qiang at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Tuesday.
According to a press release from the President’s Office, both Zardari and Premier Li reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation between Pakistan and China, emphasizing the need to expedite the implementation of projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
During their talks, Premier Li praised President Zardari’s role in fostering stronger Pakistan-China relations. He noted that the two nations have consistently supported each other through global challenges and expressed a commitment to elevate their partnership. Li also stressed the importance of accelerating progress on CPEC development projects and assured continued Chinese investment in Pakistan. He expressed confidence that Pakistan-China relations would grow even stronger in the future.
The Chinese Premier appreciated Pakistan’s steadfast support for China on core issues such as the “One China” policy, Taiwan, Tibet, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and the South China Sea. He reaffirmed China’s support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and prosperity.
Earlier, while welcoming the Chinese delegation, President Zardari highlighted that Pakistan’s friendship with China remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy. He emphasized exploring new avenues for cooperation to further expand bilateral relations.
Zardari also underscored the importance of enhancing connectivity through all-weather road networks to boost trade and people-to-people ties. He encouraged Chinese companies to take advantage of investment opportunities in Pakistan, particularly by investing in the Pakistan Stock Exchange.
“The time is ripe to fully leverage China’s economic growth, especially through CPEC and the opportunities presented by Gwadar Port,” the press release quoted the president as saying. He expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support on key issues of mutual interest.
During the meeting, President Zardari also extended condolences for the loss of two Chinese nationals in a terrorist attack in Karachi on October 6 and reiterated his upcoming visit to China in November for further talks aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
