President Asif Ali Zardari met with China’s Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Thursday to reaffirm the enduring “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between Pakistan and China. The high-level meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People, highlighted the strong historical ties and mutual commitment to furthering bilateral relations.
In a joint statement, both leaders emphasized the importance of the long-standing friendship between their nations, which has been continuously reinforced over successive generations. President Zardari underscored Pakistan’s dedication to enhancing the relationship, particularly through regional connectivity and economic growth initiatives.
Also Read: Pakistan, China to Boost Intelligence Sharing and Security Ties
“The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) remains pivotal in promoting regional ties and economic development,” President Zardari said, acknowledging CPEC’s strategic role for both countries. Discussions also focused on expanding cooperation under CPEC 2.0, with particular attention to renewable energy, science and technology, infrastructure, and agriculture.
Additionally, the leaders agreed to foster increased trade and economic engagement, highlighting the importance of private sector collaboration and business-to-business ties. Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit, formalizing new partnerships in key sectors.
One notable MoU was between Pakistan’s Thatta Cement Company and China’s Ching Gang Construction Group, which aims to boost cement production by an additional 5,000 tonnes per day. Another MoU was signed between the Sindh Energy Department and China’s Meng Yang Renewable Energy Company, focusing on joint renewable energy projects.
The signing ceremony was attended by key Pakistani officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
