LAHORE, May 15: Chinese ambassador Liu Jian called on PML-N President Nawaz Sharif here on Wednesday and delivered a felicitation message to him from his country’s leadership on his party’s victory in the just concluded general election.

The envoy said Chinese leaders and people had great respect for Mr Sharif, who was viewed as an old, strong and consistent friend of China.

Nawaz’s contribution towards strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries was well-known and deeply appreciated, a press release quoted the envoy as saying.

The ambassador also briefed Mr Sharif on the forthcoming visit of Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang to Pakistan, saying it was another evidence of the high level of trust and confidence that characterised relations between the two countries.

He added that the prime minister intended to have a cordial and productive meeting with Mr Sharif.