President Asif Ali Zardari began a 10-day visit to China to strengthen economic and trade ties. His office confirmed that the trip will include meetings with Chinese leaders in Chengdu, Shanghai, and the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The visit focuses on enhancing Pakistan China cooperation through investment, trade, and regional connectivity.
The president’s visit comes shortly after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s official trip to Beijing, where agreements worth $8.5 billion were signed. These deals included investments and joint ventures in multiple sectors. Zardari’s trip builds on that momentum, aiming to deepen strategic and economic collaboration.
Discussions will focus on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), trade expansion, and new connectivity initiatives. Officials highlighted that Pakistan considers China a crucial partner for economic stability and growth. The visit also reflects Islamabad’s desire to attract further Chinese investment.
China remains Pakistan’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade recently surpassing $25 billion. Over the past decade, Chinese firms have invested heavily in Pakistan’s energy, transport, and infrastructure projects under CPEC. These projects are seen as central to Pakistan’s long-term economic vision.
In conclusion, Zardari’s visit signals continuity in Islamabad’s foreign policy and its focus on building stronger ties with Beijing. By prioritizing Pakistan China cooperation, the government aims to expand investment, boost trade, and secure a more stable economic future