ISLAMABAD, June 26: On his first overseas visit since assuming office, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif would travel to China on July 4, a foreign ministry official said.

Mr Sharif was invited by Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang when he visited Islamabad last month.

During his stay in Beijing Mr Sharif will discuss with the Chinese leadership plans for reinforcing bilateral strategic partnership, enhancing economic cooperation and development of Pakistan-China trade and economic corridor. He is also likely to seek Chinese assistance in overcoming the energy crisis in Pakistan.

Premier Keqiang had during his visit also identified energy as a priority area for cooperation.

An advance team led by Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal visited Beijing to discuss details of the prime minister’s upcoming visit. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz will not be accompanying Mr Sharif on his first overseas trip.