Zardari in China to seek urgent cash

The President was received and greeted at the airport by Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Hu Zhengyue and senior Chinese officials as well as officials of Pakistan Embassy.

The President was presented a guard of honour. A Chinese girl presented him a bouquet on the occasion.

The formal welcome ceremony for the President will be held today (Wednesday) at the Great Hall of the People, where he will be received by Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Pakistan and China are traditional allies with long-standing economic and commercial relations. Pakistani officials say 'important agreements will be signed' during Zardari’s visit to enhance cooperation in various sectors and seek China’s urgent help in the current economic crisis.

Meanwhile, Ambassador to China Masood Khan has said that a civil nuclear pact is expected between China and Pakistan during President Zardari’s maiden visit to China.

Talking to a private TV channel on Tuesday, Masood Khan said both the countries would ink several agreements in the field of technology, agriculture, minerals and free trade agreement (FTA). Khan said the President would also sign a new protocol of free trade in which permission for more trade will be granted.

To a question on civil nuclear pact, Khan said, “Both countries have always supported the peaceful use of civil nuclear energy, adding agreement is expected in this connection.” He said Zardari’s four-day visit to Beijing will be a milestone in the bilateral relationship “which have matured into comprehensive strategic partnership” between the two sides. Khan said the two countries had “exemplary friendly relations” and the top leadership is committed to further deepen the 'time-tested' ties.