Xi Says China Is Ready To Strengthen Ties With Pakistan

China is willing to strengthen co-operation and promote solidarity with Pakistan but has urged it to guarantee the safety of Chinese organisations and personnel working there, China’s Foreign Ministry has said, quoting President Xi Jinping.

China is a major ally and investor in Pakistan.

Xi on Thursday evening met Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister, Anwar ul Haq Kakar, who is in Beijing this week for a forum on China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Xi said both countries should pursue an “upgraded version” of a China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, enhancing cooperation in industrial parks, agriculture and mining, new energy, as well as early implementation of major connectivity projects.

At the same time, he called for security for Chinese interests.

“We hope the Pakistani side will guarantee the safety of Chinese institutions and personnel in Pakistan,” the Ministry cited Xi as telling Kakar.

REUTERS