President Asif Ali Zardari held a high-level meeting with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang on Thursday, during which several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed to enhance cooperation between the two countries across various sectors.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah were also present alongside the president during the meeting.
During the discussions, President Zardari emphasized the strategic importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reiterating that the project is vital for regional connectivity and economic development. He also expressed gratitude to China for its continuous support of Pakistan’s development agenda.
Both leaders underscored the need to foster greater engagement between the private sectors and business communities of both nations to strengthen economic cooperation. President Zardari praised China’s ongoing partnership and stressed the importance of deepening ties for the prosperity of both countries.
Key Agreements
A highlight of the meeting was the signing of multiple MoUs, marking a new phase of collaboration between Pakistan and China. Among these was a key agreement between Pakistan’s Thatta Cement Company and China’s Qinggang Construction Group, which aims to enhance Pakistan’s cement production capacity by 5,000 tons per day.
Additionally, an MoU was signed between Sindh’s Energy Department and China’s Mingyang Renewable Energy Company to facilitate cooperation in renewable energy projects, accelerating the development of sustainable energy solutions in Pakistan.
Another notable agreement was signed between the Sindh government and a Chinese company for a coal gasification and urea production plant, which is expected to boost Pakistan’s energy and agricultural sectors.
These agreements further solidify the growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, with both countries committed to ongoing collaboration in various crucial sectors for mutual growth and prosperity.
Zardari Meets Chinese President Xi Jinping
Earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari arrived at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, where he received a warm welcome from Chinese President Xi Jinping.
A contingent of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army presented a guard of honour to President Zardari, while the national anthems of both Pakistan and China were played. Following the formalities, the presidents of both nations introduced their respective delegations.
In a display of cultural warmth, Chinese children greeted President Zardari with a grand welcome, adding a festive touch to the occasion.
