| Pak, China to enhance relations in all fields |
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| Tuesday,January 18,2005 Posted: 20:12 BJT(12 GMT) |
| Stresses resolution of Kashmir, Palestine disputesBeijing桺rime Minister Shaukat Aziz met President Hu Jintao here Thursday and discussed with him the matters relating to bilateral cooperation, particularly in the economic field.The meeting held at the Great Hall of the People lasting for about 45 minutes, during which the two countries reiterated their resolve to further deepen their existing bilateral ties in all areas of common interest.Official sources told APP that the President Hu Jintao reassured that China will continue to help Pakistan in its economic development.While welcoming the Prime Minister, the Chinese President hoped that his visit would further contribute to the development of their decades?old partnership.Shaukat Aziz conveyed him greetings and good wishes on behalf of President General Pervez Musharraf and the people of Pakistan. He thanked him for China抯 consistent support to Pakistan for its socio-economic development. He told him that he had held very fruitful talks with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao, which covered all areas of their common interest.While talking with the top leaders of Dongfang Electric Corporation, who called on him here at the State Guest House, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz Thursday appreciated China抯 assistance in modernization of Pakistan抯 railways.They reviewed the progress on agreement, under which China was providing 169 bogeys and 69 locomotive engines to Pakistan as well as improving signalling and track system.Aziz hoped that China抯 commitment regarding transfer of technology will help the country make self-reliance in the communication sector.A delegation of China International Water and Electric Corporation also called on the Prime Minister and discussed various proposals for enhancing their bilateral cooperation in science and technology sector.Shaukat Aziz asked a Chinese company, 慣he China International Water and Electric Corporation?to take necessary steps for early completion of Mangla Dam抯 raising project.He was talking to the company抯 top executives, who called on him at the State Guest House. He hoped that the project would become another symbol of their deep-rooted friendship.Aziz lauded China抯 support and assistance in the development of dams and other water resources in the country.He hoped that the company will take part in international bidding for construction of Neelum-Jhelum and other such dams. Addressing scholars and students here at Tsinghua University, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz called for eradicating socio-economic deprivations and injustices world over to get rid of terrorism and extremism.He said the resolution of long-standing conflicts in particular Kashmir and Palestine disputes is essential for the success of the international fight against terrorism.There other issues such as Iraq and Afghanistan that need to be addressed thought concerted international action, he added.Aziz during about an hour-long speech that covers political and economic issues, highlighted Pakistan抯 position on terrorism and its efforts to improve the living conditions of its people.He also spoke about the growing Sino-Pak ties in various sectors, terming his meetings with the Chinese leaders as highly successful.He said, 揺xtremism and violence often breed in the humiliation and despair of the people who have been denied freedom and basic dignity.?There is need to ending poverty, ensuring better trade terms and opportunities to the developing countries, sharing advanced technology for human good,?he added.While elaborating Pakistan抯 peace efforts in the region, the Prime Minister said ?We are sincerely pursing dialogue with India to resolve Kashmir issue.? We want to address the issue with an open mind for a settlement that is acceptable to Pakistan and India and most importantly to the people of Kashmir because the dispute relates to their fundamental rights.Pakistan抯 approach for peace and development in South Asia includes: First dialogue for settlement of all disputes particular in Kashmir.Second, restraint and security balance in South Asia, the Prime Minister said, adding, ?We do not desire an arms race in the region conventional or nuclear.?Third, cooperation for economic development of the region both on bilateral basis and within the framework of South Asian Association for Regional Corporation (SAARC).In South Asia, he said the great challenge is economic development to eradicate illiteracy and disease.Pakistan, he said is attaching highest priority to the economic development, with a number of reforms in social sector, which have now started bringing fruits to the people. About terrorism, Shaukat Aziz further said long-standing issues and poverty have given rise to the perverse phenomena of terrorism which must be rejected.The Prime Minister also pointed out that Today the world is dominated by the only super power wielding unprecedented military and economic strength.揟endencies of unilateral action, assertion of doctrine of pre-emption and indifferences to multi-lateralism are trends that undermine UN Charter,?he added.Praising the China-Pakistan friendship, Shaukat Aziz said 揥e are happy that our long-standing cooperation remained constant in spite of the changing regional and international environment.?/p> Pakistan-China close friendly cooperation has contributed to promoting international understanding and building bridges.Shuakat Aziz said China抯 political strength is an assurance of stability in Asia. China has eschewed domination and rejects hegemony and is committed to promotion of a peaceful environment in its neighbourhood.This approach is evident in China抯 active pursuit and success in settling its borders with almost all its neighbours.He also appreciated China抯 efforts, initiating six-party talks on the Korean unclear issue and averting a crisis.Later, the Prime Minister also answered the questions by the students, that were mostly related to future prospects of China-Pakistan cooperation in economic and tourism sectors. Earlier, the President of the University Gu Binglin welcomed the Prime Minister and appreciated also his efforts for economic development of Pakistan, as well as bringing the Sino-Pak friendship to higher level.桝PP |
Bilateral Visits