Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Nawaz Sharif on Saturday called on the visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao here and discussed matters relating to bilateral interest. Nawaz Sharif, during the meeting that lasted for about an hour, urged the Chinese Premier to further enhance and expand China's participation in Pakistan's economic growth and development.
The Chinese Premier and PML-N Quaid recalled the unique nature of Sino-Pak relations and time-tested friendship between the two neighbouring countries. Nawaz Sharif was accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the party's other senior leaders, while the Chinese Premier was assisted by foreign minister and members of his entourage.
Referring to China's remarkable progress, Nawaz Sharif said he himself had been witness to the giant strides made by this great country. "This was a testimony not only to the resolve and determination of the Chinese people, but to the farsightedness and vision of its great leaders, who had transformed China from a poor, developing country to the world's second biggest economy, in only three decades," he added.
The PML-N Chief further said it was a matter of great joy and satisfaction for Pakistani people, who deeply cherished their friendship with China and considered it as a sincere friend and a proven ally that always stood by Pakistan in hour of trial. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao thanked Nawaz Sharif for his warm remarks and recalled that Sharif had made a most valuable contribution to the consolidation of Sino-Pakistan relations, especially, during his two tenures as Prime Minister.
"He is seen not only as an outstanding leader of Pakistan, but also as a great friend of China as well that is why he enjoys great respect and esteem in his country," Wen observed. The Chinese Premier lauded the achievements of the Punjab government in ensuring economic development and social stability.
Wen also extended an invitation to Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif to undertake an official visit to China early next year. The PML-N Quaid urged Premier Wen Jiabao to encourage Chinese companies to invest in Pakistan's critical sectors, especially energy, power and agriculture, so that Pakistan could enhance its economic growth, which was essential not only for the well-being of its people but also to confront the menace of extremism and terrorism.
The Chinese Premier assured Nawaz Sharif that China would take full advantage of the wide-ranging opportunities being made available to Chinese companies to invest in Pakistan. He said the Chinese leadership attached highest priority to enhancing relations with Pakistan in all spheres of life.