Pakistan President to Visit China, a Valued Ally

[dr.umer]

I agree with Mr. AM that nuclear deal would have been to soon, but I am also surprised that there is no mention of any defensive agreement as well as any joint terrorism help. If China could have step in helping Pakistan it would have made things easier.

You are right but let's not forget that may be two sides are keeping "confidentiality" of some deals and it is not unusual specially when we take into perspective that US and India are watching closely.

 

[dr.umer]

Text of Pak China joint statement ​

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): Following is the text of joint statement between China and Pakistan issued here Thursday after the end of formal talks between the leaders of two countries.

Text Begins:

“On the invitation of President Hu Jintao, President Asif Ali Zardari paid a state visit to China on 14-17 October 2008.

President Hu Jintao held talks with President Zardari. Mr. Wu Bangguo, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Mr. Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council, and Mr. Jia Qinglin, Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, met President Zardari respectively. Talks between the two Presidents and President Asif Ali Zardari’s meetings with other Chinese state leaders were characterized by traditional warmth, friendship and mutual understanding. The two leaders reached broad agreement on strengthening China-Pakistan strategic partnership of cooperation and on international and regional issues of mutual interest under the new circumstances. The President of Pakistan also held wide ranging discussions with the leaders of Chinese corporations and financials institutions.

The leaders of the two countries reviewed with satisfaction the growth of China-Pakistan relations over the past 57 years since the two countries established diplomatic ties. They agreed that the friendship between China and Pakistan has withstood the test of time and practice, notwithstanding changes in the international, regional and domestic environments. The all-weather friendship and all-round cooperation have become the distinctive features of China-Pakistan relations.

Both sides agreed that, it is essential that the two sides make continuous efforts to strengthen good-neighborly relations and friendship, develop mutually beneficial cooperation and deepen strategic partnership of cooperation between China and Pakistan which serves the fundamental interests of the two peoples and contributes to peace and development in the region.

Both sides agreed that the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Good-neighborly Relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (Treaty) signed in April 2005 is of great historic and immediate significance, laying a solid legal foundation for the long-term, stable and healthy growth of China-Pakistan relations. Both sides decided to abide by the policies and principles enshrined in the Treaty, earnestly implement the bilateral legal documents signed since the two countries established diplomatic ties and further intensify cooperation in the areas of economy, defense, science and technology, people to people contact, thus constantly advancing the China-Pakistan strategic partnership of cooperation.

China stressed that Pakistan is China’s good neighbor, close friend, dear brother and trusted partner. China will continue to view China-Pakistan relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and make joint efforts with Pakistan to lift China-Pakistan Strategic partnership of cooperation to a new high.

Pakistan stressed that Pakistan-China relationship is the cornerstone of its foreign policy, and friendship with China represents the common desire of all Pakistani people. Pakistan appreciated the strong support and assistance provided by the Government and people of China to Pakistan in its economic development. Pakistan remained committed to continuing its policy of friendship towards China and making unremitting efforts to promote the healthy and steady growth of relations between the two countries.

Pakistan unequivocally upholds the one-China policy and considers Taiwan as an inseparable part of the People’s Republic of China and supports all efforts made by the Chinese Government to realize national reunification.

China appreciated Pakistan’s long-term and staunch support to China on issues concerning China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s effort to uphold its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and appreciated Pakistan’s important role in promoting regional peace, stability and security and strengthening international counter-terrorism efforts.

Both sides opposed to all forms of terrorism, extremism and separatism, resolved to cooperate with each other to fight the above-mentioned three forces. China conveyed its complete support to Pakistan’s commitment and efforts to fight terrorism and appreciated the sacrifices made by the government and people of Pakistan In this regard.

The two sides agreed that economic cooperation is an important part in the strategic partnership between the two countries. The two countries enjoy great economic complementarity and should fully tap the potential and comprehensively deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in the economic field.

Both sides agreed to fast track the implementation of the Five Year Development Programme on Economic Cooperation and make full use of the Free Trade Agreement in Goods and Investment and Pakistan-China Joint Investment Company. In this regard, they agree to convene a meeting of Pakistan-China Economic Cooperation Group under the Five Year Development Programme on Economic Cooperation at an early date. They also agreed to hold the next meeting of the Joint Economic Commission at the convenience of both countries.

Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation to further develop and boost Pakistan’s Mineral and Energy sectors as well as broaden financial and banking sector cooperation, They also agreed to further enhance ‘connectivity’ by developing new communication links including fiber optic links. They agreed to explore the concept of Integrated Border Management, overland trade and development of trans-border economic zones.

Both sides agreed to maintain communication and coordination on major international and regional issues to safeguard their common interests. Both sides agreed to continue to cooperate closely on issues such as the reform of the United Nations, climate change and energy and food security to promote world peace and development.

President Asif All Zardari offered congratulations to the Chinese government and people on the successful hosting of the Beijing Olympic Games and the successful completion of Shenzhou VII’s mission. President Hu Jintao congratulated President Asif Ali Zardari on his election as the President of Pakistan and thanked Pakistan for its valuable assistance in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Wenchuan, China. He also appreciated Pakistan’s support to ensure the success of the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics Games. Pakistan applauded the outstanding achievements China has made in the 30 years of reform and opening-up and believes that China’s development will contribute to world peace and prosperity.

President Zardari invited President Hu Jintao to visit Pakistan once again at his convenience. President Hu Jintao thanked President Zardari for his kind invitation.

Both sides signed the following agreement/MoUs during the visit:

1. AGREEMENT ON ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

2. AMENDING PROTOCOL TO FREE TRADE AGREEMENT BETWEEN GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND GOVERNMENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN

3. FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF MINERALS BETWEEN THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REFORMS COMMITTEE OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL RESOURCES OF PAKISTAN

4. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON COOPERATION BETWEEN THE MINISTRY OF LAND RESOURCES OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL RESOURCES OF PAKISTAN

5. AGREEMENT ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION COOPERATION BETWEEN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT OF PAKISTAN 6. FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT FOR COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF RADIO AND TELEVISION BETWEEN THE STATE ADMINISTRATION OF RADIO, FILM & TELEVISION, GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND BROADCASTING,GOVERNMENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN.

7.PAKSAT-1R SATELLITE PROCUREMENT CONTRACT BY & BETWEEN CHINA GREAT WALL INDUSTRY CORPORATION (CGWIC) AND PAKISTAN SPACE & UPPER ATMOSPHERE RESEARCH COMMISSION (SUPARCO)

8. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON SCIENTIFIC COLLABORATION IN AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION BETWEEN CHINESE ACADEMY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES AND AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF PAKISTAN

9. AGREEMENT ON PROPERTIES EXCHANGE BETWEEN THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN

10. COOPERATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN BEIJING MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN

11. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING ON COOPERATION BETWEEN THE CRICKET ASSOCIATION OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND THE CRICKET BOARD OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN

12. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING REGARDING THE PROJECT OF X-RAY CONTAINER/VEHICLE INSPECTION SYSTEM BETWEEN NUCTECH COMPANY LIMITED, TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY, MINISTRY OF EDUCATION OF THE PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF CHINA AND MINISTRY OF INTERIOR OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN”

Text Ends.

 

[dr.umer]

Chinese media widely splashes President Zardari’s first state visit: ​

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP) - Chinese print and electronic media gave wide publicity and projection to President Asif Ali Zardari’s first 4-day state visit to China highlighting strength and warmth of time-tested bilateral partnership. The English newspaper of mass circulation “China Daily” in its Today’s edition carried front page story with banner headline “Visit cements all-weather partnership” stating that interactions of President Hu Jintao and his visiting Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari lent impetus to the historic friendship between the two countries.

“The only way I could do justice to the memory of my late wife and my late father-in-law was to make sure that my first state visit as President was to China “, the paper quoted President Zardari as saying in its 5-column report published on summit- meeting held at the Great Hall of the People.

“Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto made prominent contributions to the initiation and development of China-Pakistan relationship, which the Chinese people will never forget”, added President Zardari.

Eleven pacts were inked after talks between the two presidents, the Paper stated adding among them, China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), a space industry service provider, was contracted to launch a telecommunications satellite for Pakistan in the first half of 2011 from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre.

With regard to the landmark welcome ceremony, held for Pakistani President, the Paper said, Mr Zardari received a red-carpet welcome and a 21-gun salute at the Great Hall of the People before his one-on-one meeting.

Quoting an interview of President Zardari to Xinhua news agency before embarking on his first state visit to China, the Paper said that Pakistani President expected to prioritize economic ties with China during his visit.

The newspaper also published President Zardari’s speech at a business forum he addressed on Thursday, stating that an economic zone would be set up to facilitate Chinese investors in Pakistan.

Bilateral trade was more than $7 billion last year; and the two sides have set a target of $ 15 billion annually by 2011, the paper said while referring to President address at the Business Forum.

The paper also carried a 5-column pictorial display in which President Hu was escorting his Pakistani counterpart for the inspection of guard of honour.

The most influential Chinese language newspaper “Peoples Daily” in its front page news captioned “President Hu Jintao meets Pakistani President Zardari-the two head of states reach consensus on further cementing the all weather Pak-China Friendship enhance all round cooperation, bring China-Pakistan strategic cooperative partnership to new height.”

The CPC organ newspaper also mentioned in its 3-column news report on the significance of President Zardari’s first state visit to China .

The paper also mentioned Chinese President as saying that after establishment of diplomatic ties 57-years ago, the Sino-Pak relations stood firmly and developed steadily despite many ups and downs on regional and international scenario.

It also published 3-column photo of President Zardari and President Hu inspecting the Guard of Honour held at the Great Hall of the People yesterday.

A large number of other Chinese language newspapers also gave conspicuous display to President Zardari’s visit to China.

The Chinese electronic media including CCTV, BTV and other networks equally accorded prominence to President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to China . They all aired with distinction President Zardari’s first official visit to China in its main bulletins.

Meanwhile, the CCTV and Peoples Daily also interviewed President Asif Ali Zardari today.

 

[dr.umer]

Both sides agreed to maintain communication and coordination on major international and regional issues to safeguard their common interests. Both sides agreed to continue to cooperate closely on issues such as the reform of the United Nations, climate change and energy and food security to promote world peace and development.

This point is very important and I wish both Pakistan and China take further steps to implement this policy of "jointly safeguarding" their common interests.

 

[batmannow]

Pakistan’s Zardari looks to China
The China Post.com

By Chris Buckley, Reuters
Thursday, October 16, 2008 10:05 am


BEIJING –– Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari reached trade deals with China on Wednes
day, raising hopes that Beijing would help his country through difficult economic and diplomatic times.
Chinese President Hu Jintao and Zardari oversaw the signing of 11 agreements on trade and economic cooperation, agriculture, mining and other areas, but it was unclear whether they included any concessional loans or nuclear cooperation deals.

The Financial Times reported that the Pakistani president was seeking US$500 million or more in soft loans from its neighbour as it grapples to stem a looming balance of payments crisis.

Zardari is wooing Beijing at a time when his country’s relations with the United States are strained after U.S. forces in Afghanistan carried out cross-border air raids and at least one ground assault on al Qaeda and Taliban targets in Pakistan.

Washington also recently sealed a civilian nuclear deal with India that riled Pakistan. Both New Delhi and Islamabad have developed nuclear weapons to counter each other, but Washington has ruled out a similar deal for Islamabad.

Zardari, on his first visit to China as president, made clear commercial ties with Chinese companies were foremost on the Pakistani delegation’s agenda, according to Xinhua news agency.

“I chose China as my first country to visit to say to Chinese companies that I will provide favourable treatment to you,” Xinhua quoted Zardari as saying
Hu told the Pakistani leader that his country “attaches high importance to the China-Pakistan relationship and has always made the development of the relationship as one of China’s diplomatic priorities,” state television reported.

In the official Liberation Daily, a Chinese analyst suggested recent discord was forcing Zardari to look elsewhere for more help.

“Although the United States has repeatedly declared it remains as supportive as ever of President Zardari and the Pakistan government, up to now there has not been action on these vows,” wrote analyst Wu Yongnian.

 

[batmannow]

Zardari's visit cements all-weather partnership
By Xiao Yang (China Daily)
Updated: 2008-10-16 07:10

President Hu Jintao and his visiting Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari highlighted the historic friendship between the two countries in a meeting Wednesday and pledged to push forward with their all-round partnership.

Chinese President Hu Jintao greets his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari during a welcoming ceremony attend a ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing October 15, 2008. Zardari arrived on Tuesday for his first visit to China as president and highlighted the historic friendship between the two countries in a meeting Wednesday and pledged to push forward with their all-round partnership. [Agencies]
"The only way I could do justice to the memory of my late wife and my late father-in-law was to make sure that my first state visit as president was to China," Zardari said at the beginning of the summit, referring to his wife, former prime minister Benazir Bhutto who was assassinated last December, and his late father-in-law, former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.


"I'm hoping to assist to take the China-Pakistan relationship further along. It is a duty which history has bestowed upon me," Zardari said.
Hu replied that the two were "old friends of the Chinese people".
"Ali Bhutto and Benazir Butto made prominent contributions to the initiation and development of the China-Pakistan relationship, which the Chinese people will never forget," he said.
Hu said China "attaches great importance to the China-Pakistan relationship and has always made the development of the relationship China's diplomatic priority".
After their talks, the two presidents attended a ceremony for the signing of 11 pacts ranging from agriculture, mining and environmental protection to space technology.

Among them, China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), a space industry service provider, was contracted to launch a telecommunications satellite for Pakistan in the first half of 2011 from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan, CGWIC sources told China Daily. It is the first deal of its kind China has signed with an Asian customer.

Zardari received a red-carpet welcome and a 21-gun salute outside the Great Hall of the People before his meeting with Hu.
In an interview with Xinhua, Zardari said he expected to prioritize economic ties with China during his visit.

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said earlier Zardari's visit would boost political and economic ties and show the two nations' commitment to an "all-weather" partnership.
Zardari, who described himself as "the first businessman president of Pakistan", is scheduled to meet a number of Chinese business leaders from such industries as finance, infrastructure, energy, materials and telecommunications.

Addressing a business forum Wednesday, Zardari said that an economic zone would be set up to facilitate Chinese investors in Pakistan.[/U]
Bilateral trade was more than $7 billion last year; and the two sides have set a target of $15 billion annually by 2011.

 

[pkpatriotic]

China to launch telecom satellite for Pakistan in 2011
Thursday, October 16, 2008

BEIJING: Pakistan's president met with China's premier on Thursday, a day after clinching agreements aimed at boosting Chinese involvement in his country's ailing economy.

Premier Wen Jiabao told Asif Ali Zardari and his delegation that China is ready to advance strategic cooperation with Pakistan, China’s official news agency reported.

Wen pledged to help Pakistan overcome its economic problems by offering assistance; however, he did not specify what type of aid China would provide.

Zardari, elected just last month, also held talks with top legislator Wu Bangguo and other senior Chinese leaders, along with major figures in finance, infrastructure, energy and telecommunications, state media reported.

Separately, Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang told reporters at a regular news briefing that Beijing stands ready to assist Pakistan.

``As an all-weather friend, China understands that Pakistan is facing some financial difficulties and we're ready to support and help Pakistan within our capability,'' Qin said, adding that the two governments' financial officials will ``keep in communication.''

On Wednesday, Zardari met with President Hu Jintao and highlighted the historic friendship between the two countries. Such ties loom large as Pakistan seeks assistance in alleviating an economic crisis brought on by higher food and energy prices.

Agreements signed between the two countries included deals on economic and technical cooperation, minerals, environmental protection, agricultural research and electricity.

Specifics of the deals were not immediately available, but sources said Thursday that one of the agreements was for China to launch a telecommunications satellite for Pakistan in the first half of 2011 from a launch center in Sichuan, in China's southwest.

 

[gpit]

China vows to cement ties with Pakistan on Zardari's first Beijing trip


English_Xinhua 2008-10-17 00:31:32

BEIJING, Oct.16 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday reaffirmed its efforts to advance strategic partnership with Pakistan as President Asif Ali Zardari met extensively with the country's political and business leaders.

"China would like to work with Pakistan to take their substantive cooperation to a new high and benefit their peoples," top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo told Zardari on Thursday afternoon.

Wu Bangguo(R), chairman of Chinese National People's Congress (NPC), shakes hands with visiting Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari during their meeting in Beijing Oct. 16, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

This was Zardari's first official trip abroad since taking presidency in September.

In their hour-long talks, Wu spoke highly of the 57-year-old China-Pakistan diplomatic relations, citing political trust, economic cooperation and coordination on international issues.

Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress(NPC), said the parliaments of the two countries would continue to conduct multi-tier exchanges, injecting a vitality into bilateral strategic partnership.

As part of Zardari's four-day trip to China, the two countries signed more than 10 agreements covering economic cooperation, trade, broadcast and communications satellites, environment, mining, agriculture and technology.

Hailing the visit "fruitful," Zardari said he had in-depth and extensive discussions with Chinese leaders and people of various circles, reaching consensus on further boosting bilateral ties.

Jia Qinglin (R), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), shakes hands with visiting Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari in Beijing Oct. 16, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

Later Thursday, top Chinese political advisor Jia Qinglin also met with Zardari at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in downtown Beijing.

Jia hailed the China-Pakistan all-weather partnership, saying it "had withstood the tests and kept up with the time."

In addition to seeking stronger economic ties, Jia proposed the two countries step up cooperation on culture, sports and tourism, promote the exchanges between the young people.

Zardari said Pakistan would work with China to cement neighborly ties, seek stronger cooperation and pass on their friendship.

Early Thursday, Zardari also met with business leaders from such industries as infrastructure, energy and telecommunications.

Zardari will wrap up his Beijing trip on Friday.

China vows to cement ties with Pakistan on Zardari's first Beijing trip_English_Xinhua

 

[gpit]

Chinese premier vows to strengthen ties with Pakistan

English_Xinhua 2008-10-16 19:39:45

BEIJING, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- China is ready to further advance strategic cooperation with Pakistan, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said here Thursday.

During a meeting with visiting Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Wen said China and Pakistan share common interests.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao(R) shakes hands with visiting Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari during their meeting in Beijing Oct. 16, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

He pledged to help Pakistan overcome its economic problems by offering assistance, however, he did not specify what type of assistance China would provide.

Wen said the two countries should continue to facilitate trade and economic cooperation in a practical, efficient and orderly way.

Zardari expressed willingness to work with China to advance thetwo country's political friendship, which he said is "deeper than the sea."

This is Zardari's first overseas trip since assuming office last month. He promised Wen, during a September meeting in New York, that he would come first to China.

Zardari said ties between Pakistan and China have been fostered by several generations of leaders.


Editor: Wang Yan
Chinese premier vows to strengthen ties with Pakistan_English_Xinhua

 

[ejaz007]

China vows to help Pakistan tackle economic woes
Friday, October 17, 2008
Zardari, Wen agree to further cement strategic ties


BEIJING: China vowed on Thursday to do what it could to help Pakistan overcome a financial crisis, as President Asif Ali Zardari met Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao here, Chinese state media reported on Thursday, although details of the assistance were not disclosed.

President Asif Ali Zardari was expected to seek $500 million or more in soft loans from China. Premier Wen said the two countries were ready to advance their strategic relationship, a day after Zardari and China President Hu Jintao signed 11 agreements on trade and economic cooperation. President Zardari had made clear that commercial ties with China were foremost on the Pakistani delegation’s agenda, according to Xinhua news agency.

“That Zardari would choose China as his first country to visit as president shows the high emphasis he places on developing friendly, cooperative Sino-Pakistani relations,” Premier Wen was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

“Whether it’s confronting the present financial crisis or fighting terrorism, China and Pakistan must strengthen their bilateral cooperation,” Wen said. China agreed to provide $500 million in a concessional loan to help Pakistan meet its balance of payment needs in April.

President Zardari hopes to secure another concessional loan of $500 million to $1.5 billion, the Financial Times reported. Zardari said he wanted to develop the political friendship between the two countries that was already “deeper than the sea”, Xinhua reported.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Qin Gang told reporters: “As a long friend of Pakistan, China understands it is facing some financial difficulties.”

“We’re ready to support and help Pakistan within our capability.” Pakistan’s ambassador to China, Masood Khan, said earlier this week in an interview with Geo an agreement on a civilian nuclear pact with China could be reached during the trip.

But Qin declined to give any details on the agreements made so far. “I’m not aware of the specifics of the deals signed,” he said. China’s foreign ministry had earlier confirmed the nuclear issue would be discussed but gave no specifics.

Meanwhile, President Zardari and Chinese Premier Jiabao held formal talks, focussing on further cementing strategic partnership between the two countries. The Chinese premier warmly received President Zardari at his residence where the two leaders shook hands and exchanged broad grins, reflecting warmth and strength of friendly bond between the time-tested friends.

The president on the occasion introduced to the Chinese premier members of his entourage. Welcoming President Zardari, Premier Wen said it was a great pleasure for him to welcome him in China.

He said the bilateral relations and cooperation will witness further improvement and depth with the passage of time.Reciprocating sentiments and feeling of the Chinese premier, President Zardari expressed his deep pleasure to be in China.

He mentioned the special relations of the Bhutto family, including Shaheed Mohtarama Benazir Bhutto with Chinese leadership. The leadership played a pioneering role in promoting and deepening the bilateral ties that turned into strategic partnership over the period of time.

During the meeting, matters pertaining to expanding bilateral relations, and cooperation in the areas of common interest received special focus. Briefing media persons about Thursday’s meetings between President Zardari and the Chinese leaders, Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir said during the very successful and ‘monumental’ maiden visit of President Asif Ali Zardari to Beijing, Pakistan and China reiterated their commitment to play their role for peace, development and prosperity of the region by strengthening their multi-faceted relations and cooperation in diverse fields.

“The visit of President Zardari to China has been very successful, and also described as monumental by the Chinese foreign minister,” the foreign secretary said. The foreign secretary said President Zardari in his meeting with Premier Wen Jiabao vowed to strengthen Pak-China time-tested ties and strategic partnership in every sphere of life, including trade and development.

Premier Wen Jiabao, he said, reiterated to continue the Chinese support and assistance by promoting trade and economic cooperation. “Here was determination on both the sides to further strengthen the existing trade and economic cooperation including in the mega projects of infrastructure, energy, mineral development, defence production, science and technology etc.”, Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir said.

He said as Pakistan and China have a five-year economic development program, it was decided that a meeting of the joint economic committee will soon be held in Islamabad. The meeting, he added, will explore the avenues of preferential treatment to Chinese investment in Pakistan as well as the provision of soft credit by the Chinese banks and financial institutions.

President Zardari during meeting with Premier Wen Jiabao highlighted and praised Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Chinese leaders Zhou Enlai and Mao Ze Dong for laying the foundation of strong bonds between Pakistan and China.

There was a substantial discussion on practical cooperation between the two countries to promote trade and investment, with focus on enhancing Pakistan’s production capacity in cement and steel sectors as well as energy development, Salman Bashir added.

On the issue of cooperation in financial and banking sector cooperation, he said it was decided that the big Chinese public and private banks, including the China Development Bank, will send their delegations to Pakistan to explore and open new avenues of trade and investment in Pakistan in various fields.

President Zardari, the foreign secretary said, told the Chinese leadership that Pakistan and China can together work for regional peace, development and prosperity through increased bilateral, regional and trans-regional cooperation.

The president highlighted that as this region is full of natural, human and capital resources, China and Pakistan can work together to exploit these resources for mutual as well as regional and trans-regional benefits, he said.

China vows to help Pakistan tackle economic woes

 

[dr.umer]

China Aiding Pakistan's Nuclear Ambitions​

China Privately Agrees To Provide Nuclear Reactors Used For Energy Production​

ISLAMABAD, Oct. 16, 2008

China has privately agreed to follow a "step-by-step" approach to fulfilling Pakistan’s aspiration for an expanded nuclear energy program, rather than sign an ambitious civil nuclear program of the kind recently struck between the U.S. and India, senior Pakistani and Western officials said on Thursday.

Private discussions are believed to have been held on expanded nuclear cooperation between Pakistan’s president Asif Ali Zardari and Chinese leaders during Zardari’s four-day visit to China, which began Tuesday.

A senior Pakistani government official, familiar with discussions between Zardari and Chinese officials, claimed Thursday that China had agreed to “consider further nuclear power reactors to fulfill our needs. The relationship (on the nuclear issue) remains intact”. Speaking to CBS News on condition of anonymity, the official added, “there is now a complete understanding on our future cooperation”.

China has installed a 325-Megawatts nuclear power reactor at Chashma, in Pakistan’s central Punjab province. Beijing is also currently working to install a second power reactor of the same capacity there. In ten years, Pakistan plans to produce up to 8,000 Megawatts of electricity using nuclear energy.

In addition to the two Chashma reactors, Pakistan has one Canadian-supplied nuclear energy reactor with a capacity of 137-Megawatts. Western diplomats say Pakistan is seeking to bridge the large gap between its installed capacity and future ambitions with Chinese help.

Western diplomats say China is interested in maintaining a stable relationship with Pakistan for a number of reasons: China sees its relationship with Pakistan as a way to counter-balance growing U.S. ties with India. In the long term, China also considers Pakistan as a conduit to expand trade with the oil rich Middle East to improve its economic and energy-related interests.

However, a second Pakistani official who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity said China is eager to avoid a direct confrontation with the West on its nuclear energy cooperation with Pakistan. “China is not seeking a head-on clash with anyone. It wants to broaden its relations with Pakistan but without the risk of a stiff U.S. reaction,” said the official.

U.S. reluctance to offer a civil nuclear power agreement to Pakistan stems mainly from revelations in 2004 that Abdul Qadeer Khan, the founder of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons program, traded nuclear secrets and technology with Iran, Libya and North Korea. Khan has remained effectively under house arrest since then.

Requests from the Western officials, notably the U.S., to interview Khan have all been denied by the Pakistani government.

 

[dr.umer]

As I already said, not all nuclear and defence deals are suppose to be made public.

 

[pkpatriotic]

President Zardari has completed a successful visit to China, with the two sides signing 12 agreements. The focus is on enhancing economic and trade cooperation between the two countries. The Pakistani president also made it a point during his visit to encourage investment, offering preferred treatment to Chinese firms. He spoke also of the opportunities Pakistan offered in various sectors given its strategic geographical location and the presence within the country of many resources.

Naturally enough, the Pakistani leader did not mention the bomb blasts, the other terrorist threats or the kidnappings of foreign nationals that today cause the country to make headlines. But at home, policy makers must recognize that it is difficult, indeed impossible, to persuade investors into the country given the prevailing environment.

A few days ago, a Polish company involved in land surveying in the Attock district, pulled out all of its' staff following the abduction of an employee. The fate of local personnel engaged by the firm is unknown, but people who were being paid a monthly sum as compensation for the use of their land for the survey have been turned away without their cheques from barricaded doors. Other companies too are reported to have reduced the presence of people on the ground, with the recent abduction of two Chinese engineers demonstrating it is not just westerners who are under threat. In these circumstances, it is hard to imagine any great willingness to take up investment opportunities in Pakistan.

Competition of course is tough, with other Asian countries offering similar advantages and fewer risks. The fact that despite these grim realities China has extended offers of help in so many areas, including mineral development, agricultural research, satellite procurement and technical cooperation is encouraging. It demonstrates the value of Pakistan's warm ties with Beijing and also the success of President Zardari's first major overseas trip.

But, friendship should go beyond the signing of documents or the hosting of elaborate banquets. Friends, after all, should learn from each other – and China has much it can teach Pakistan. In 1949, when the country emerged from a long civil war as the People's Republic of China, conditions within it were not vastly different to those of Pakistan in 1947. Disease, poverty and illiteracy were all features of life for the Chinese people. Industry was virtually non-existent, the infrastructure was limited and feudal overlords dominated the countryside. Since then, China, within six decades, has undergone a sea change. Forecasts by international agencies predict it will be a super-power within 20 years. It is already a hub of international manufacturing and business. From all this, its people have benefited – in terms of employment, education and the quality of life. Sadly, Pakistan cannot claim such advances. Indeed, while some gains have of course been made, in other spheres things seem to have remained static or even slipped backwards. Indeed some say that in 1947 there was less corruption than is the case now, wheat was cheap and available in abundance and some administrative systems were better run. The failure to live up to the potential available in a country that had ample agricultural lands, natural resources and manpower, is saddening.

Much time has been lost. Pakistan today faces what seems like collapse. Literacy levels are still low, hunger is endemic, disease rampant. To add to these woes, the state's coffers have emptied, the power crisis has forced the closure of thousands of textile mills and the law and order situation is a source of great instability. But even now, Pakistan perhaps needs to look at what lessons it can learn from China.

Its success, even though days of dark repression marred it, has been a phenomenal one. We must hope that along with their sheaves of paper, their gifts and their souvenirs, Pakistan's high-powered delegation also brings back with it some of the commitment that has underpinned China's progress and some of the dedication that has, through the years, driven it steadily forward.
Excerpted by the editorial The News

 

[batmannow]

GEO Pakistan
Chinese company to generate low cost hydel electricity in Pakistan
Updated at: 1807 PST, Friday, October 17, 2008

ISLAMABAD: A prominent Chinese power generating entrepreneur has said that it will make investment to the tune of $ 1.7 billion for generating low cost hydel electricity in Pakistan.
The assurance for investment was given to President Asif Ali Zardari when a delegation of China International Water and Electricity Corporation (CWE) held a detailed meeting with him here on Friday.

“We just met with President Asif Ali Zardari and the talk focused on Bhasha and Kohala Dams”, said Deputy General Manager of CWE Jin Zheping, said talking to media after meeting the President at State Guest House in Beijing.

Jin said for Bhasha Dam CWE was developing concept with Chinese Hydel power generating groups and also with WAPDA as it is a gigantic project.

He said the MoU in this regard has already been signed. Jin pointed out that President has shown high vision on cooperative relations in economic sector between the two countries.

The CWE Deputy General Manager said the President has assured that he will particularly welcome Chinese entrepreneurs for investment in Pakistan.

President Zardari specially mentioned that he will steer China-Pakistan trade economic cooperation to encourage Chinese companies to invest and come to Pakistan for setting up of various projects.

CWE has been working on water resources and hydropower engineering for over 50 years. Over the years, the Company has been active in international contracting, foreign economic aid, international trading and manpower export sectors. CWE is recognized one of the major state-owned enterprises in China.

By the end of September 2007, the company has completed over 600 international contracts in more than 60 countries and regions.

 

[TOPGUN]

I hope finally some good things will happen for us & inshallah China will help ! but i must say lol Zardari always has a funny koolaid smile on all the time when it comes to $ !