ISLAMABAD, Oct 15 (EPI): In a significant meeting held today, the Hon\u2019ble Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, extended a warm welcome to H.E. Mr. Li Qiang, Premier of the People\u2019s Republic of China. This engagement aimed to deepen the bond of friendship and enhance bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and China, particularly in the fields of economics, trade, and investment.<\/p>\n
Chairman Gilani emphasized the historic ties between the two nations, tracing back over 2,000 years to the Silk Road, which served as a bridge of friendship linking our ancient civilizations.<\/p>\n
He acknowledged the longstanding amity that has characterized Pakistan-China relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in May 1951, highlighting that Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize the People\u2019s Republic of China.<\/p>\n
The Chairman paid tribute to the vision of the architects of this enduring relationship, including former Prime Ministers Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, as well as the leadership of China. He reaffirmed that Pakistan considers China as one of its closest friends, with both nations committed to mutual trust, respect, and goodwill.<\/p>\n
Recalling his own history of fostering Pak-China relations during his tenure as Prime Minister, Chairman Gilani noted high-level interactions and discussions that have consistently strengthened ties. He reiterated the importance of parliamentary cooperation, citing recent visits by Pakistani delegations aimed at furthering this essential partnership.<\/p>\n
Addressing the vital issue of security, Chairman Gilani condemned terrorism in all its forms and reaffirmed Pakistan\u2019s commitment to ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals working on development projects within the country.<\/p>\n
He expressed that attacks against Chinese citizens would be seen as attacks against Pakistan itself, underscoring the solidarity between the two nations in combating extremism and terrorism.<\/p>\n
Chairman Gilani also highlighted the robust defense cooperation that underpins the relationship, noting significant joint projects like the production of the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet. He expressed gratitude for China\u2019s support in enhancing Pakistan\u2019s national defense capabilities.<\/p>\n
On the economic front, the Chairman discussed the progress made under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which serves as a pivotal framework for enhancing trade relations. He reported that bilateral trade volume has shown commendable growth, with imports from China reaching $13.50 billion and exports to China increasing to $2.707 billion in FY24.<\/p>\n
This meeting marks a renewed commitment to strengthening the Pakistan-China partnership, with a shared vision for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.<\/p>\n
Ends-Exact Press International-<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"