Pakistan, China to enhance bilateral ties

Pakistan and China Thursday reiterated their resolve to boost their existing ties and further deepen their cooperation in various sectors.

Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and advisor to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz made the announcement while addressing a joint news conference after holding a meeting at the foreign ministry, Dawn reported.

Aziz said that during the meeting, the Chinese foreign minister was apprised about the developments in the region and Pakistan's stance on various issues.

He stressed on the importance of China's contribution to the development of Pakistan especially in the form of the Pak-China Economic Corridor.

Addressing the joint press conference, Yi said the economic corridor is a flagship project which would help bring an economic revolution not only in Pakistan but the whole region.

He said that Chinese President Xi will visit Pakistan in the current year and added that economic and security cooperation between the two countries is of vital importance.

Yi announced that both sides have decided to enhance people-to-people and cultural contacts.

He said China would ensure completion of development projects in infrastructure, energy, water and power sectors for the rapid development of Pakistan.

The Chinese foreign minister is here on a two-day visit to hold bilateral talks, promote economic and trade cooperation and discuss the regional situation with the Pakistani leadership.

Both Beijing and Islamabad would finalise the dates of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Pakistan, which is expected to take place next month.

The ministry of foreign affairs and the Chinese embassy in Islamabad would also co-host the launch ceremony of the Pakistan-China "Year of Friendly Exchanges" during the visit.