International Department of the Committee of the Communist Party of China Vice Minister Chen Fengxiang called on Prime Minister (PM) Nawaz Sharif along with a six-member delegation at the PM’s House on Friday.
The delegation briefed the Prime Minister on recent political developments in China, including the outcomes of the 4th Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee meeting, which focused on strengthening the rule of law in China and increasing accountability of the administration. Since assuming office, President Xi Jinping has overseen a high-profile crackdown on corruption in Chinese government and Communist Party circles, Mr. Chen said.
The delegation also extended condolences on the tragic incident of terrorism that took place in Peshawar and said the Chinese leadership has expressed sympathy and full support for the people of Pakistan in the aftermath of this dastardly act.
The Prime Minister appreciated the concern shown by Chinese leadership in this regard. He said that Operation Zarb-e-Azb has produced very positive results and many terrorists have been killed or captured. We will continue to target all terrorist organizations irrespective of their agenda and affiliation, he said.
He said that friendship with China is the cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and the solid foundation of our time-tested and all-weather friendship is based on strong mutual trust, excellent cooperation and convergence of views on regional and global issues. We owe it to our future generations to keep the rich narrative of Pakistan-China friendship alive by expanding people-to-people linkages at all levels, he said.
The Prime Minister said that postponement of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Pakistan in September was unfortunate and the people of Pakistan are eagerly looking forward to welcoming the President soon.
He appreciated that Communist Party of China has led the country to astonishing economic transformation, which has lifted 400 million people out of poverty within a period of 30 years catapulting China into the ranks of the world’s major powers. This is an example for all developing countries, he said.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan wants more institutional exchanges between the parliamentarians of the two countries to promote mutual understanding and learning.
Other members of the delegation included Mr. Wang Hongxiang, Director General, Department of Inspection, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate of China; Mr. Yuan Zhibing, Deputy Director General; Mr. Li Shuzhen, Director, Bureau of Retired Cadres; Mr. Chang Jiuqing, Deputy Director and Mr. Hu Xiaodong, Third Secretary. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr. Sun Weidong was also present during the meeting.
Raja Zafar ul Haq, Leader of the House in Senate and Mr Tariq Fatemi, Special Assistant to PM also attended the meeting.
