Lahore: Pakistan-China relations remain central to Pakistan’s foreign policy, emphasized President Asif Ali Zardari during a meeting with Shen Xiaoming, Party Secretary of Hunan Province. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in agriculture, health, education, and trade, underscoring the longstanding ties between the two nations.

According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari highlighted the historical connection his family shares with China, acknowledging the efforts of his late father-in-law Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and late wife Benazir Bhutto in fostering these relations. He noted the continuation of this tradition by the next generation, including his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari.

During the meeting, President Zardari invited Shen Xiaoming to Pakistan to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He praised Hunan’s strengths in agricultural technology, expressing interest in collaborating on seed technology, agricultural research, and modern farming practices.

The President also addressed the potential for expanding bilateral trade in agricultural machinery, minerals processing, and information and communication technologies. He was informed of 12 cooperation agreements between Hunan universities and Pakistani institutions, with 959 Pakistani students currently studying in Hunan.

Governor of Hunan, Mao Weiming, described Pakistan and China as good friends and partners at a banquet hosted in President Zardari’s honor. He pledged Hunan’s continued contribution to the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong further noted that the visit symbolizes strong bilateral ties and cooperation in agriculture, industry, and minerals.

President Zardari reflected on his personal affinity for China, recalling his first visit in 1989 and affirming the deep-rooted ties between the people of Pakistan and China.