Pak-China strategic co-op to be enhanced: Envoy
Source : The Nation Date : April 18, 2013
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Islamabad - Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Liu Jian, vowing to strengthen Pak-China ties further in all fields said on Wednesday that China has been cooperating with the international community and regional partners to ensure peace, progress and prosperity in the region and the world.
Addressing a function at the inauguration of "China Hall" here at Strategic Studies Institute Islamabad (SSII), a newly formed think tank, the Chinese envoy said that Pakistan and China have very strong strategic and long-term relations.
He said both the countries always extended their support to each other on all-important issues. He said China will always stand by Pakistan.
The Chinese ambassador said strong, trustworthy and time-tested Pak-China relations are the real source of strength for the people and governments of the two countries. He said the Pak-China ties, growing on fast track, are being strengthened in all the fields.
Referring to the strong political relations between the two countries, the ambassador assured that China will continue to further enhance and strengthen its friendly relations with new leadership being elected following the forthcoming process of general elections being held in Pakistan. He said China will continue it sincere support and cooperation to the economic and social development of Pakistan through enhancing strategic cooperation.
Referring to the menace of extremism and terrorism, the Chinese ambassador said both Pakistan and China are victims of this menace and emphasised upon the need for international and regional cooperation to fight extremism and terrorism.
The ambassador said China always extended its full support and cooperation to counter-terrorism strategy through more cooperation. He said, "China is playing an important role in the fight against terrorism," adding that there is more need for international cooperation in this regard.
Referring to the change in the leadership of China, the ambassador said there should be more exchange of young leadership between the two countries. He said young leadership should be involved at all levels and should be encouraged to interact with each other on all issues. On strong bilateral Pak-China ties, the ambassador said these are on very strong footing and both the countries have been cooperating in all fields.
The ambassador said that China success story has become an important source of encouragement for other countries in the region and for the world. He said China is working for peaceful international community, and promoting world peace. He said China is committed to promoting cooperation with all the countries and continue to work jointly with intentional community for peace and security.
The ambassador said China has also adopted a policy of close and consolidating friendship with all its neighbours.
Earlier, former Ambassador Inam-ul-Haq speaking on the occasion highlighted the importance of improving Pak-China relations in all fields. He said Chinese investment has increased in many fields especially in energy sector that include financial assistance for Neelam Jehlum Hydro Project, Chasma Nuclear Energy Project and many other such projects. He said the trade volume between the two countries has increased to $12 billion and within next three to five years it will cross $20 billion mark.
Director General Strategic Studies Institute Islamabad (SSII) Dr Shireen Mazari welcoming the distinguished guests said the SSII has been formed to cater the needs of the students and researchers on different subjects relating to strategic ties between different countries. She said the SSII will offer teaching facilities and provide training to the students for diploma, certificate and specialised research.