Wang, Shahbaz discuss economic cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that China will continue to cooperate with Punjab in energy, minerals, industry and other sectors. He expressed these views during a meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif; in which promotion of Pak-China co-operation and projects under Pak-China economic corridor were discussed in detail, disclosed an official here on Friday.
The Chinese Foreign Minister also said China highly values its relations with Pakistan; the Chinese people and government consider Pakistan's problems as their own and are also extending co-operation in overcoming energy crisis in the country. "Pak-China friendship is exemplary and the people of the two countries deeply respect each other. Pak-China friendship is strengthening with the passage of time," he added.
Talking to the Chinese Foreign Minister, the Chief Minister said the Chinese co-operation for the progress and development of Pakistan is highly commendable. He also said China is a sincere and trustworthy friend of Pakistan, which has stood by it in every hour of need. "Both the countries have always supported each other's stance on regional and international issues," he added. According to him, Pak-China friendship is higher than the Himalayas, sweeter than honey, stronger than steel and deeper than ocean. China has proved to be a true friend of Pakistan by helping it in the development of various sectors.
Exploration work of mineral reserves in Chiniot-Rajwa was also given to a Chinese company in a transparent manner, which has discovered deposits of iron, copper and gold through hard work of 10 months. Chinese co-operation and role in the exploration of mineral reserves in Punjab will always be remembered. "Hearts of the people of China and Pakistan beat together. During the tenure of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Pak-China friendship is turning into beneficial economic relations and new avenues of co-operation are opening in various sectors. Pak-China economic corridor is an important step towards strengthening of trade and economic relations between the two countries and will usher in a new era of progress and prosperity in Pakistan," he said.
He also said 2015 is being celebrated as the year of Pak-China economic co-operation due to which the friendship between the two countries will enter into a new phase. He also said people of Pakistan are waiting for the visit of the Chinese President, as it will further strengthen friendly ties and bilateral co-operation between the two countries. "China has made tremendous progress through struggle and hard work and become a great economic force. The rapid economic progress made by China is a role model for the world," he added.