BEIJING, March 22: Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali would be the first foreign dignitary to visit Beijing after the transfer of power to the new Chinese leadership, sources in the foreign office here said.

They told APP that the countries enjoyed unanimity of views on almost all regional international issues, including the war against Iraq.

They said the past experiences had proved that only through closer unity and cooperation and a sound economic development could developing countries effectively resist hegemony and outside interference and safeguard their independence, sovereignty and interests.

During the visit, memoranda of understanding and agreements are expected to be signed to develop socioeconomic partnership.

They are expected to review the cooperation in the development of Saindak copper, Thar coal and Jinnah hydropower projects.

The agenda of the talks may include Chinese cooperation in development of Gwadar port, petroleum projects, modernization of railways and tourism.

China has committed nearly $2 billion credit to Pakistan during the last two years for the implementation of some public sector projects.

According to an estimate, nearly 70 per cent major public sector development projects are being carried out in the country with the assistance of the Chinese government.

Sources said that after China’s entry into the World Trade Organization, the development of economic ties between the countries mostly depended on the private sector. They underlined the need for holding an investment conference and an exhibition of Pakistani products in China. The Chinese government has recently relaxed the rules, providing opportunities to the foreigners to set up their business.—APP