Praising China’s extraordinary growth and rise on the global stage, President Asif Ali Zardari stated that Beijing’s development is a positive advancement, and the world has no reason to fear it.
During an interview with Chinese state media on his five-day visit to the country, President Zardari emphasized that China’s rapid development and transformation over the past few decades had greatly impressed him.
“China has never been an occupier. […] So why should a neighbor, who knows that the Chinese are not the kind to interfere in other countries, be scared? I would never be scared of China,” the president remarked.
He further added, “I might be afraid of another country, but not China.”
President Zardari highlighted that the individual excellence demonstrated by the Chinese people in their respective fields is collectively benefiting the entire nation.
In the first week of February, President Zardari arrived in China at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping. During his stay in Beijing, he was accompanied by a delegation including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Senator Saleem Mandviwala, and Dr. Asim Hussain. The visit involved meetings with the Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.
The discussions during the visit revolved around accelerating China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, security measures for Chinese nationals, and fostering cooperation in science and technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, and agriculture. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Pakistani and Chinese businesses.
During his meeting with the Chinese Premier, President Zardari highlighted the deep-rooted and enduring “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership” between China and Pakistan, which has been nurtured by generations of leaders from both nations.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, emphasizing the time-tested and enduring partnership between the two countries.
Meanwhile, while appreciating China’s foreign policy during the interview, President Zardari noted that as a neighboring country, Islamabad recognizes Beijing’s firm stance on non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations.
He added that China’s foreign policy serves as a source of regional stability.
Expanding on Pak-China relations, the president opined that the evergreen friendship between the two nations is not limited to good times alone.
He stressed that Pakistan should fully leverage Beijing’s development and its geographical advantages.
Commending his Chinese counterpart for his perseverance and deep understanding of global affairs, President Zardari also appreciated his political philosophy and governance style while highlighting the numerous milestones China has achieved under his leadership.
Emphasizing the need to improve roads and communication infrastructure with China, he stated that Beijing could play a crucial role in assisting Pakistan’s agricultural sector.
