ISLAMABAD
A delegation of Chinese scholars led by Ambassador (Retd) Zhou Gong called on Sartaj Aziz, adviser to the prime minister on national security and foreign affairs, at the Foreign Office on Monday.
The discussions covered recent developments in Pakistan-China relations. Welcoming the scholars the adviser highlighted that scholars and academicians are expected to play an important role in providing new ideas and suggestions for further promoting the China-Pakistan friendship.
He said that new leadership in China and Pakistan is committed to increasing the economic content in bilateral relations and that common people of both countries should enjoy the material benefits of this friendship.
He briefed the delegation about the peace initiatives of the government of Pakistan with India and Afghanistan since Pakistan is desirous of a peaceful neighbourhood. He also highlighted the commitment of government of Pakistan to provide foolproof security to Chinese interests and nationals inside Pakistan.
The adviser informed the delegation about ongoing military operation in North Waziristan against terrorists. He reiterated the resolve of the government of Pakistan to eliminate all terrorists from Pakistani soil.
The adviser highlighted that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor would not only benefit China and Pakistan but would also connect people of whole region including East Asia, Central Asia and South Asia. This would bring a sea change in the regional connectivity hence promoting regional intergradations and economic development.
The delegation thanked the adviser for receiving them. Ambassador (Retd) Zhou Gong said that people of China know that Pakistan is their closest friend. The new Chinese leadership attaches high importance to its relations with Pakistan. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor will be a landmark project that will transform the whole region.
The delegation is visiting Pakistan to attend China-Pakistan scholars' Seminar on building China-Pakistan community of shared destiny in the new era from August 5-6, 2014.