Pakistan and China have reiterated their commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation across key areas, including the economy, investment, and regional connectivity. This commitment was emphasized during a meeting between Chinese Premier Li Qiang and President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Tuesday.
During the meeting, both sides stressed the importance of expediting the implementation of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. President Zardari welcomed the Chinese delegation, highlighting that Pakistan’s friendship with China remains a cornerstone of its foreign policy. He emphasized the potential for exploring new avenues of cooperation and enhancing connectivity through all-weather road networks to bolster trade and people-to-people linkages.
President Zardari encouraged Chinese companies to take advantage of investment opportunities in Pakistan, particularly in the Pakistan Stock Exchange. He noted that the time was ripe to leverage China’s economic growth, especially through CPEC and the Gwadar Port. The president also announced his upcoming visit to China in November, expressing his eagerness to reconnect with old friends and further strengthen bilateral ties.
Reflecting on his previous visits to China, President Zardari acknowledged China’s unwavering support on key issues of mutual importance. He expressed condolences over the recent loss of two Chinese nationals in a terrorist attack, condemning the act and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring the security of Chinese nationals in the country. He assured Premier Li that Pakistan would take all necessary measures to protect Chinese workers and track down the perpetrators of such attacks.
President Zardari also appreciated China’s support on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and reiterated Pakistan’s support for China on its core issues, including the “One China” policy, Taiwan, Tibet, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and the South China Sea.
Premier Li Qiang, speaking on the occasion, reaffirmed the strong brotherhood and partnership between Pakistan and China. He emphasized that strategic cooperation would continue to deepen under the leadership of President Xi Jinping. Premier Li acknowledged President Zardari’s contributions to strengthening Pakistan-China relations and expressed confidence in the continued growth of their partnership.
The Chinese Premier highlighted the need to accelerate CPEC development projects and assured continued support for Chinese companies investing in Pakistan. He expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-China relations, emphasizing mutual support on core issues and China’s commitment to Pakistan’s territorial integrity and prosperity.
Following the meeting, President Zardari hosted a state luncheon in honor of Premier Li and his delegation, further solidifying the strong ties between the two nations.
