China has decided to open a visa office in Peshawar to further boost economic relations with Pakistan, Radio Pakistan reported on Thursday.

According to the state-run radio service, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing made the announcement while talking to the media during his visit to China Window Centre — a Chinese cultural centre — in Peshawar.

Yao Jing was also quoted as saying that the first Small Economic Zone of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in Rashakai would be operational this year. He added that the development will help in poverty alleviation.

Talking about the issue of India-occupied Kashmir, the Chinese envoy said Kashmir is an international dispute and any unilateral action to change its special status is not acceptable.

He stressed the need for resolving the dispute through peaceful dialogue and for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

During the visit, the ambassador was briefed on the various galleries of the cultural centre including literature and photo galleries, CPEC and Pak-China friendship wall.

Yao Jing hailed the friendly attitude of Pakistani people and their hospitality towards China.