President Asif Ali Zardari visited Changsha in China’s Hunan province. He held important meetings with provincial leadership to strengthen cooperation under CPEC 2.0.
High-Level Engagements in Hunan
The president met Shen Xiaoming. He also attended a banquet hosted by Mao Weiming.
Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in agriculture, health, education, and trade. Both sides reaffirmed strong Pakistan-China relations.
Focus on Agriculture and Economic Cooperation
Zardari highlighted Hunan’s strength in agricultural technology. He stressed its importance for Pakistan’s development needs.
He expressed interest in cooperation in seed technology, research, and modern farming. He also supported trade expansion in machinery, minerals processing, and ICT.
CPEC 2.0 and Regional Cooperation
Both sides discussed the vision of CPEC 2.0. Hunan leadership expressed commitment to deepening cooperation under this framework.
Governor Mao Weiming described Pakistan and China as “good friends and good brothers.” He said Hunan will support future CPEC development.
Education and People-to-People Links
Officials shared progress in education cooperation. Universities in Hunan signed 12 agreements with Pakistani institutions.
Currently, 959 Pakistani students are studying in Hunan. This strengthens academic and cultural ties between both countries.
President’s Personal Connection with China
Zardari recalled his long association with China. He first visited the country in 1989.
He said his family has always valued Pakistan-China relations. He mentioned Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto’s commitment to China.
He also said this tradition continues through his son Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari.
China Reaffirms Support for Cooperation
Jiang Zaidong said the visit reflects strong respect for China’s leadership. He noted expanding cooperation in agriculture, industry, and minerals.
He expressed hope that the visit will strengthen ties ahead of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Conclusion
The visit reinforced Pakistan-China strategic ties. Both sides agreed to expand cooperation under CPEC 2.0 and deepen long-term partnership.
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