Beijing, China – In a landmark meeting at the Great Hall of the People, President Asif Ali Zardari and Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-China relations through the high-quality development of the CPEC 2.0 China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) 2.0. The discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation, enhancing regional connectivity, and deepening cultural exchanges between the two nations.
CPEC 2.0: A New Era of Regional Connectivity and Economic Growth
President Zardari, currently on a five-day official visit to China, highlighted Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership with China. Both leaders emphasized the role of CPEC 2.0 in fostering economic prosperity, not only for Pakistan and China but for the broader region. They acknowledged the potential of partnerships with other countries under the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) to drive sustainable development and connectivity.
Strengthening People-to-People Ties and Cultural Exchanges
Recognizing the importance of cultural diplomacy, President Zardari and President Xi stressed the need for deeper people-to-people exchanges, academic collaborations, and media partnerships. They underlined the China-Pakistan Community of Shared Future, a vision for mutual growth and prosperity in the New Era.
MoUs Signed for Science, Technology, Clean Energy, and Socio-Economic Development
The meeting culminated in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony, where both sides formalized agreements to enhance cooperation in:
- Science & Technology
- Media Collaboration
- Clean Energy Initiatives
- Socio-Economic Development These agreements signify a new phase of collaboration aimed at leveraging technological advancements and clean energy for economic progress.
President Zardari Invites President Xi to Visit Pakistan
In a gesture of goodwill and deep-rooted friendship, President Asif Ali Zardari extended an invitation to President Xi Jinping to visit Pakistan. He acknowledged China’s exemplary development and praised the visionary leadership of President Xi, whose initiatives under BRI have significantly contributed to global economic growth.
Warm Reception and State Banquet in Honor of President Zardari
Upon his arrival, President Zardari received a grand welcome with a guard of honor and a heartfelt reception by a group of Chinese children. The state banquet hosted by President Xi reflected the deep mutual respect and enduring friendship between the two nations.
