During a meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad, Chinese Premier Li Qiang reiterated China’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and prosperity. The meeting was part of Premier Li’s visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. President Asif Ali Zardari hosted a luncheon in Premier Li’s honor, with the event attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, 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, emphasizing the need to accelerate the implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.
Premier Li highlighted the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan, emphasizing their relationship as that of “brothers, partners, and friends.” He praised President Zardari’s role in strengthening bilateral relations and expressed confidence in deepening strategic cooperation under President Xi Jinping’s leadership.
President Zardari reiterated the importance of Pakistan’s close ties with China, calling for exploring new avenues of cooperation and expanding bilateral relations further. He also announced plans to visit China in November to further strengthen ties.
During 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.
The packed schedule of Premier Li’s visit reflects the significance of the continued strengthening of the all-weather strategic partnership between Pakistan and China.
