Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari met with Communist Party Secretary of China's Hunan province Shen Xiaoming on Sunday and attended a banquet hosted by Governor Mao Weiming, according to the president's office. The engagements focused on advancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture, health, education, and trade.
Strengthening CPEC Ties
The meeting took place during Zardari's week-long visit to China, which began on Saturday, aimed at strengthening trade, economic, and strategic cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). China has pledged over $65 billion in investment under CPEC, part of President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative.
Agricultural Collaboration
President Zardari emphasized Hunan's strengths in agricultural technology and equipment, noting their relevance to Pakistan's efforts to enhance productivity. He expressed interest in closer collaboration in seed technology, agricultural research, and modern farming practices. He also highlighted the potential for expanding bilateral trade in agricultural machinery, minerals processing, and information and communication technologies.
Regional situation also came under discussion. Islamabad has taken Beijing into confidence about its recent efforts to mediate the war between the United States and Iran, with China backing Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to defuse the crisis.
Banquet Remarks
Speaking at the banquet, Governor Mao described Pakistan and China as 'good brothers' and said Hunan province would continue to contribute sincerely to CPEC development. In his remarks, President Zardari noted significant potential for enhanced cooperation, particularly in areas observed during the visit.
Industrial Visits
The president, who arrived in Hunan late Saturday, visited Sany Heavy Industry Co. Ltd. in Changsha and Hunan Tea Group Co. Ltd. He emphasized strengthening cooperation in industrial technology, skill development, and joint ventures to support Pakistan's infrastructure and industrial growth. Zardari underscored the scope for cooperation in value addition, agro-processing, and export development, inviting Chinese companies to explore collaboration opportunities.
