Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari met with Mr. Luo Zhaohui, Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), at Aiwan-e-Sadr today to discuss ways to enhance the long-standing strategic relationship between Pakistan and China. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in trade, economy, agriculture, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people contacts.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the meeting was also attended by the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Jiang Zaidong, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Dr. Jahanzeb Khan, and senior officials from both Chinese and Pakistani governments. President Zardari emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting its strategic importance and reaffirming the country’s dedication to completing all CPEC projects on time.

The talks highlighted the potential benefits of Gwadar Port, which President Zardari pointed out would enhance regional connectivity and reduce transportation costs to China. He also proposed joint training initiatives to develop a skilled workforce that meets Chinese industry demands.

Mr. Luo briefed the President on CIDCA’s contributions to Pakistan’s socio-economic development, particularly in health and education, and stressed the importance of boosting tourism and agricultural cooperation. President Zardari expressed sorrow over the recent terrorist attack on Chinese workers in Bisham, assuring that Pakistan would intensify efforts to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and investors.

Acknowledging challenges to bilateral relations, Mr. Luo expressed confidence that adversarial efforts would not disrupt the strong ties between the two nations. President Zardari thanked the Chinese government for its significant role in Pakistan’s economic development and appreciated CIDCA’s aid in reconstructing flood-damaged infrastructure and housing for health workers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan.