Pak-China economic corridor to restore peace in region: Chinese PM
Chinese PM says the relationship of the two countries is "ever lasting".
The Chinese PM also thanked President Zardari for awarding him with Nishan-e-Pakistan on his arrival. PHOTO: AFP
ISLAMABAD:
Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang , in a joint news conference with President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday, said the two countries are working to develop an economic corridor, Express News reported.
The Chinese PM arrived in Islamabad under extra-tight security on the second leg of his first official trip since taking office in March and after a visit to Pakistan and China's arch rival, India.
Li's plane was escorted by six air force fighter jets as it entered Pakistani air space. Security measures also included shutting down mobile phone networks briefly across the city.
"The two countries have reached a consensus on multiple important issues. We hope to create a giant economic corridor that would not only enhance China's strategic significance but would also help in restoring peace and stability to Asia," he said.
Li said there was still "great potential" for the relationship. Bilateral trade last year rose above $12 billion for the first time and both sides are aiming to reach $15 billion in the next two or three years.
"Our two sides should focus on carrying out priority projects in connectivity, energy development and power generation and promoting the building of a China-Pakistan economic corridor," Li told media.
The Chinese PM said that his visit to Pakistan prior to it forming a new government shows that the relationship between the two countries is "ever-lasting." He said the regular meetings between officials of the two countries have become a norm.
"Through my visit, I aim to strengthen the tradition," he said.
He thanked President Zardari for awarding him with Nishan-e-Pakistan on his arrival and said "I don't just take this as personal honour but also as a sign of goodwill from people of Pakistan to the people of China."
"We would like to partner with Pakistan, so that we can create a better future for mankind, for Asia and for both our countries," he added.
President Zardari responded by saying, "Today is one of the happiest days of my life. Gwadar Port and our agreements on Satellite connectivity among others are a testament to the fact that the dreams of citizens from both the countries are being realized."
He thanked the Chinese PM for generously contributing 500 million yuan to development projects in Pakistan and hoped that the cooperation of the two countries would lead to a better future for South Asia.
The two countries also signed a series of cooperation documents covering the economy, culture, and science and technology.
"China and Pakistan shall remain all-weather friends," President Zardari said.
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[poll id="1131"]
Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang , in a joint news conference with President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday, said the two countries are working to develop an economic corridor, Express News reported.
The Chinese PM arrived in Islamabad under extra-tight security on the second leg of his first official trip since taking office in March and after a visit to Pakistan and China's arch rival, India.
Li's plane was escorted by six air force fighter jets as it entered Pakistani air space. Security measures also included shutting down mobile phone networks briefly across the city.
"The two countries have reached a consensus on multiple important issues. We hope to create a giant economic corridor that would not only enhance China's strategic significance but would also help in restoring peace and stability to Asia," he said.
Li said there was still "great potential" for the relationship. Bilateral trade last year rose above $12 billion for the first time and both sides are aiming to reach $15 billion in the next two or three years.
"Our two sides should focus on carrying out priority projects in connectivity, energy development and power generation and promoting the building of a China-Pakistan economic corridor," Li told media.
The Chinese PM said that his visit to Pakistan prior to it forming a new government shows that the relationship between the two countries is "ever-lasting." He said the regular meetings between officials of the two countries have become a norm.
"Through my visit, I aim to strengthen the tradition," he said.
He thanked President Zardari for awarding him with Nishan-e-Pakistan on his arrival and said "I don't just take this as personal honour but also as a sign of goodwill from people of Pakistan to the people of China."
"We would like to partner with Pakistan, so that we can create a better future for mankind, for Asia and for both our countries," he added.
President Zardari responded by saying, "Today is one of the happiest days of my life. Gwadar Port and our agreements on Satellite connectivity among others are a testament to the fact that the dreams of citizens from both the countries are being realized."
He thanked the Chinese PM for generously contributing 500 million yuan to development projects in Pakistan and hoped that the cooperation of the two countries would lead to a better future for South Asia.
The two countries also signed a series of cooperation documents covering the economy, culture, and science and technology.
"China and Pakistan shall remain all-weather friends," President Zardari said.
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[poll id="1131"]