November 27, 2006	Monday	Ziqa'ad 5, 1427

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LAHORE, Nov 26: Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi said on Sunday Chinese President Hu Jintao’s visit to Pakistan will further promote the trade and economic relations between the two countries, cementing their warm bilateral ties.

Talking to reporters after bidding farewell to President Jintao, Mr Elahi said his visit provided a chance to Pakistani people to express their love for their Chinese brethren. By according a historic welcome to the visiting dignitary, the people of Lahore had practically shown their love for Beijing, he added.

The chief minister said China had extended all possible assistance to make Islamabad economically strong. China was a sincere friend of Pakistan which had always stood by its side in every hour of trial, he said.

He said both the countries shared common view on international issues. China had always supported Pakistan’s standpoint on numerous issues. The agreements signed during Mr Jintao’s visit would help peoples of both the countries come closer to each other. These accords would bring in more investment in Pakistan, helping further increase cooperation between the two countries in trade and commerce, he added.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the chief minister thanked the people of Lahore for according unprecedented warm welcome to the state guest. He congratulated them on the declaration of Lahore as the pearl of Punjab by the Chinese president. This `pearl’ would continue to sparkle with the strength of Sino-Pak friendship.