Nawaz for strengthening Sino-Pak ties in all sectors
19 October, 2012
LAHORE: Former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has lauded China's unflinching support for Pakistan over the decades while urging it to intensify its cooperation with Pakistan in all sectors. Nawaz was speaking at a luncheon hosted by him in honour of a visiting Chinese delegation, led by Member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo of the Chinese Communist Party Li Changchun, on Thursday. During the meeting, the two leaders held a wide-ranging review of Pakistan-China bilateral ties, highlighting areas such as energy and power, in which China could make a vital contribution to Pakistan's economy and thereby to its growth and development. Nawaz described China as a time-tested friend and an ally that had proven, on more than one occasion, its abiding friendship for the people of Pakistan. This, he said, had created indissoluble bonds of trust and confidence between the two countries. Recalling his many visits to China, Nawaz said he was proud of having made a modest contribution to the advancement and consolidation of Pak-China relations, as premier of Pakistan twice. Nawaz also remarked he was confident that under the new Chinese leadership that was expected to be elected early next year, Sino-Pak relations would continue to be enhanced and strengthened. The two leaders also reviewed the situation in the region, with both emphasising the importance of strengthening their cooperation, particularly in view of the many challenges confronting this region. Appreciating the PML-N chief for hosting the meeting, Changchun emphasised that China viewed Nawaz as a strong and sincere friend, who had made historic contribution to the enhancement of ties between the two countries. He emphasised that while relations between the two countries were excellent, he said both sides must continue enhancing and strengthening it, so as to be able to meet the requirements of coming years. He assured Nawaz China would remain a strong and steadfast ally of Pakistan, as the relationship had served not only the interests of the two countries, but also played a critical role in ensuring peace and stability in the region. End.
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