ISLAMABAD: Senate Chairman Mohammad Sadiq Sanjrani assured China of continuity of policy and commitment to the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other bilateral cooperation in the wake of the change of political leadership in the country.

He said CPEC had across the board political and institutional support in Pakistan and its projects were progressing smoothly. Pakistan hopes that work on the Gwadar international airport and other social welfare projects would also accelerate with the Chinese assistance.

Mr Sanjrani is leading a delegation of senators and businessmen to a visit of China on the invitation of Chairman Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Wang Yang.

According to a statement, during a meeting held in Beijing with Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the Pakistani delegation said CPEC had added an economic dimension to the already strategic relationship between the two countries.

The Senate chairman assured his hosts of Pakistan’s continued diplomatic support to the legitimate concerns of China and urged Beijing to play an enhanced role in alleviating the sufferings and human rights violations of Kashmiris in the India held Kashmir.

The Chinese foreign minister said Pakistan’s security integrity, sovereignty and successful pursuit of socio-economic development of its people remained Beijing’s unequivocal resolve.

He said the partnership between the two countries would continue to grow regardless of changes in the regional and international situation. China sees Pakistan as a reliable and close friend, and the relationship with Islamabad will continue to be a priority for China.

Mr Yi stressed the importance of exchanges between the legislative branches of Pakistan and China. As representatives of the peoples of both the countries, such interactions between legislators are essential for fostering close people to people ties, he added.

Published in Dawn, August 17th, 2018