Beijing (TDI): President Asif Ali Zardari met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on Wednesday, reaffirming the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries and exploring new avenues of cooperation under CPEC 2.0.
The meeting took place at Beijing’s Great Hall of the, where both leaders discussed regional and international issues of mutual interest, and opportunities to further expand the scope of bilateral partnership, particularly through continued high-level exchanges.
They emphasized China-Pakistan Economic Corridor’s (CPEC) crucial role in enhancing regional connectivity, fostering shared benefits and common prosperity, including through collaborations with other nations.
Both sides also highlighted the importance of people-to-people linkages and cultural exchanges for strengthening the China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future in the New Era.
Underlining the enduring friendship between the two nations, they reaffirmed support for each other on the issues of core interest.
During his 5-day official visit to China, President Zardari reaffirmed Islamabad’s unwavering support to its “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership” with China and emphasized the “unique, time-tested and special relationship” between the two nations.
President Zardari Commends China’s Exemplary Development
He also appreciated China’s exemplary development, progress and prosperity, terming it a manifestation of the vision of the Chinese leadership and the dynamism of the Chinese people.
President Zardari also paid glowing tribute to President Xi Jinping for China’s profound contributions to international development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
He said that CPEC is a shining model of the BRI’s visionary concept of win-win cooperation.
He extended the invitation to President Xi to visit Pakistan, stating that the people and government of Pakistan hold him in high esteem as a visionary leader and as a special friend of the country.
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The meeting was followed by a ceremony where the two leaders witnessed the inking of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to enhance collaboration in science and technology, media, clean energy and socio-economic development, among others.
Earlier, President Zardari was warmly welcomed by his Chinese counterpart and presented with the guard of honour upon his arrival.
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A group of children also warmly welcomed and extended heartfelt reception to the President.
Following the ceremony, President Xi Jinping hosted a state banquet in his honour and for his delegation.
