Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with China during a meeting with Mr. Cai Dafeng, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the President welcomed the Chinese delegation and conveyed greetings to President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. He emphasized that friendship with China is central to Pakistan’s foreign policy. President Zardari expressed support for President Xi Jinping’s vision of a Community of Shared Future for Mankind and related initiatives, and highlighted the significance of high-level exchanges between the two nations.

The meeting coincided with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. President Zardari described the anniversary as a milestone, noting that Pakistan’s Parliament had adopted resolutions to commemorate the occasion. He congratulated China on the successful “Two Sessions” and the adoption of the 15th Five-Year Plan, and welcomed Chinese investment in various sectors of Pakistan’s economy.

The President highlighted the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan’s economic development. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of CPEC 2.0, emphasizing industrialization, green energy, agriculture modernization, livelihood initiatives, and enhanced connectivity.

Mr. Cai Dafeng relayed greetings from President Xi Jinping to President Zardari and appreciated the longstanding support from Pakistan. He expressed confidence that the bilateral relationship would continue to strengthen under the leadership of both presidents. The meeting also addressed regional and international issues, with participation from several Pakistani and Chinese officials.