Chinese PM assures continued support for Pakistan’s sovereignty, prosperity

President Zardari in a meeting with Li Qiang announces plans to visit China in November to further strengthen ties

ISLAMABAD:

Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed China’s unwavering support for Pakistan's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and prosperity during a meeting with President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad on Tuesday.

The meeting took place as part of Premier Li's visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, where he was honoured at a luncheon hosted by the president.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir also attended the event, underscoring the importance of Pakistan-China ties.

Both leaders expressed their commitment to deepening strategic cooperation in key areas such as the economy, investment, and regional connectivity. They also stressed the need to accelerate the implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

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Premier Li hailed the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan, stating, “Pakistan and China are not just neighbours but also brothers, partners, and friends.” He praised President Zardari’s role in strengthening bilateral relations and highlighted the countries' mutual support despite global challenges.

“Under President Xi Jinping's leadership, the strategic cooperation between China and Pakistan will continue to deepen, and both nations will elevate their partnership to new heights,” Li said.

Li also emphasised the need to expedite CPEC-related development projects and expressed China's willingness to continue supporting Chinese companies investing in Pakistan. He conveyed optimism about the future of the Pakistan-China relationship, saying it would grow even stronger in the coming years.

Additionally, Premier Li appreciated Pakistan’s consistent stance on key Chinese issues such as Taiwan, Tibet, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and the South China Sea. He reassured that China would maintain its support for Pakistan’s sovereignty and prosperity.

President Zardari reiterated the importance of Pakistan’s close ties with China, describing the friendship as a central pillar of the country’s foreign policy. He called for exploring new avenues of cooperation, noting that there remains ample scope to expand bilateral relations further.

During the meeting, Zardari highlighted the significance of enhancing trade and public links through all-weather roads. He encouraged Chinese companies to invest in Pakistan’s stock exchange and seize the opportunities presented by CPEC and Gwadar Port. The president also announced plans to visit China in November to further strengthen ties.

Zardari expressed his eagerness to reconnect with old friends and build upon the strong foundations of the bilateral relationship.

Reflecting on his previous visits to China, Zardari acknowledged the steadfast support Pakistan has received on matters of mutual importance. He also conveyed his deep condolences for the two Chinese nationals killed in a recent terrorist attack in Pakistan, assuring that the culprits would face exemplary punishment.

"Enemies of the Pakistan-China friendship are trying to harm CPEC and our bilateral ties, but they will not succeed," he said.

The president thanked China for its continued backing on the Kashmir dispute and reiterated Pakistan’s support for China on critical issues such as Tibet and the South China Sea.

In a separate meeting, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq welcomed Premier Li and discussed enhancing parliamentary and economic relations between the two countries. Both sides agreed to expand cooperation, with Sadiq lauding Li’s visit as a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties.

Sadiq expressed confidence that the SCO summit, being hosted in Pakistan, would boost regional cooperation and stability. He also noted Pakistan’s pride in its friendship with China, describing it as a "trusted and sincere ally."

Touching on CPEC, the speaker highlighted its importance for both nations and said the project would usher in a new era of regional prosperity.

Li also attended a dinner hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in honour of the SCO leaders. His packed schedule reflects the significance of his visit as Pakistan and China continue to strengthen their all-weather strategic partnership.