ISLAMABAD, Dec 10: A five-member delegation of the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA) on Tuesday called on President Gen Pervez Musharraf.

During the meeting, the president emphasized the strategic nature of Pakistan-China relations and underlined the importance of consultations at all levels.

He expressed his hope that the CPIFA would continue to contribute to the promotion of Pakistan-China relations. Bilateral relations and regional and international issues came under discussion.

The delegation visiting Pakistan at the invitation of the Islamabad Council of World Affairs (ICWA) is led by Mei Zhaorong and includes Pei Yuanying and Lu Shulin. The latter is a former ambassador of China to Pakistan. Chinese Ambassador Zhang Chunxiang accompanied the delegation.

Later, the delegation called on the foreign minister. During the meeting, the minister stressed the priority that Pakistan accorded to its relations with China.

He appreciated the CPIFA’s role in strengthening the friendly ties between the countries. The minister hosted a dinner in honour of the delegation.

The ICWA’s President Agha Shahi and other members were also present.—APP