Foreign Minister Qureshi holds talks with Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. PHOTO: APP
“Both sides stressed that they regard developing China-Pakistan relations as a diplomatic priority, and are committed to strengthening an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries and building a closer China-Pakistan community of shared future in the new era,” said a statement issued by the Foreign Office.
The Chinese side reiterated its steadfast support for Pakistan in safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence and national dignity, choosing its development path according to its national conditions, and establishing a better security environment.
The Chinese side appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role on international and regional issues.
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Both sides agreed to further strengthen their coordination and cooperation on international and regional matters, and to keep close communication and collaboration in multilateral forums including the UN, multilateral financial institutions, the SCO and SAARC.
Both sides believed that a peaceful, stable, cooperative and prosperous South Asia is in the common interest of all parties, and emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving all disputes and issues in this region on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
The Chinese side appreciated efforts made by the Government and people of Pakistan in firmly combating terrorism and extremism, and supported Pakistan in implementing its National Action Plan and important measures taken recently in this regard.
The Chinese side called on international community to view Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and contributions in an objective and fair manner, and to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with Pakistan.
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The two sides underlined that China-Pakistan relationship was a factor of stability in the regional and international situation and reaffirmed their resolve to continue to strengthen it in all areas.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan will begin four-day trip to China from Thursday to attend the Belt and Road Forum being held in Beijing.
This will be the prime minister’s second visit to Beijing. He earlier travelled to China in November last year.
“At the invitation of President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Imran Khan is visiting China from April 25 to 28, 2019 to attend the 2nd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing. The forum will be inaugurated by President Xi Jinping on 26 April,” said an official handout issued by the Foreign Office.
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According to the statement, Belt and Road Forum provides a platform to countries participating in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for exchanging views and experiences on regional connectivity; policy synergy; socio-economic development and trade and commerce.
Leaders from 40 countries and delegations from over 100 countries, international organizations and corporate sector would participate in the event.
During the visit, the prime minister will be accompanied by a ministerial delegation. He will deliver a keynote speech in the opening ceremony of the forum and participate in the Leaders’ Round Table.
He would also hold meetings with several heads of states/governments and corporate and business leaders.
In addition to participating in the Belt and Road Forum, the prime minister would also hold bilateral meetings with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.
Pakistan and China will also sign several MoUs and agreements to enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse areas.
Following the forum, the prime minister will attend the Beijing International Horticulture Exhibition-2019 and address Pakistan Trade and Investment Conference in Beijing.
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