Pakistan, China in talks to promote economic development

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have kick-started formal talks in order to promote economic development with the purpose to strengthen bilateral relation between the two countries.

A delegation from the Chinese International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) led by its chairman Lou Zhaohai commenced a five-day visit to Pakistan from April 21. Accompanied by Ambassador of China to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, the delegation is participating in deliberations with the aim of strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

The delegation called on Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema on Monday where the minister extended his condolences on the recent tragic incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and assured that the Government of Pakistan is taking concrete steps for enhancing security measures for the Chinese officials working in Pakistan.

The meeting was also attended by the Planning Commission deputy chairman, Planning Development & Special Initiatives secretary, Interior secretary and Economic Affairs Division acting secretary and other senior officials.

During the meeting, various matters of bilateral cooperation regarding significant ongoing and future projects especially CIDCA’s overall development portfolio, CPEC and post-flood reconstruction and rehabilitation projects were discussed.

The Economic Affairs minister underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the development of projects aiming at the livelihood enhancement and betterment of people.

He also congratulated Zhaohai on the prestigious civil award bestowed upon him from the Government of Pakistan, recognising his invaluable contributions towards Pakistan development.

In response, Zhaohai expressed his appreciation for the warm reception and conveyed his gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for the conferment of the civil award. The CIDCA chairman further appreciated the comprehensive portfolio of bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

“Economic cooperation is the cornerstone of our bilateral cooperation”, he said. The minister assured the Chinese delegation complete assistance from the Government of Pakistan, reaffirming the commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties with China. In response, CIDCA chairman acknowledged the assurance and reiterated the agency’s dedication to continuing its unwavering support for Pakistan’s economic development endeavors.

Both sides expressed optimism for the future, emphasising the importance of sustained collaboration in achieving mutual prosperity and advancement and to intensify bilateral collaboration through future technical level discussions.