Xi hails Sharif's 'efforts for reform' in Pakistan

Islamabad, Apr 20: Chinese President Xi Jinping, who arrived here on a two-day official visit on Monday morning, said he admired Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's efforts for reforms in the country.

The Chinese president, after delegation-level talks were held here, also said Sharif is highly experienced and his struggle against terrorism is worthy of respect, Dawn online reported.

Pakistani and Chinese delegations held formal talks at the Prime Minister's House, where all aspects of bilateral relations between the two countries were reviewed. [Pakistan to get billions as donation from China]

Sharif, formally welcoming Xi on his maiden visit to Pakistan as president, hoped that the visit would further consolidate the already strong ties between the two countries.

During the meeting, in addition to boosting bilateral ties, both leaders also reviewed regional and international issues of mutual concern, including the regional security situation with respect to Afghanistan and the Middle East.

Earlier, Sharif said that Xi's visit would usher in a new era of development in Pakistan.

Talking to the top executives of three leading Chinese companies - China Huaneng Group, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) and Zonergy Corporation - Sharif said that the government would extend all possible facilitation to the Chinese companies to ensure timely completion of the planned projects.

The premier appreciated the role of the companies for undertaking various projects in Pakistan, including ones that are part of the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor (PCEC) Project.

He said that Pakistan is facing acute shortage of energy and the government has made a commitment to the people of Pakistan to meet this shortage during its tenure, hence a lot of emphasis is being laid on timely completion of these projects, particularly those in the energy sector.

Leaders of the Chinese delegation said the strong Pakistan-China friendship provides an excellent platform for boosting business relations between the two countries.

IANS