Chinese PM Li Qiang arrives in Pakistan after 11 years, receives warm welcome
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Islamabad: The Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of China, Li Qiang, has arrived in Pakistan after an 11-year hiatus for a four-day visit to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting.
Upon his arrival at Nur Khan Air Base, he was welcomed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, and Information Minister Atta Tarar. The Chinese Prime Minister was also given a 21-gun salute, and he is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers and senior officials.
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The Prime Minister of Pakistan warmly welcomed the esteemed guest at Nur Khan Air Base, where children dressed in traditional attire presented flowers to the Chinese Prime Minister.
According to sources, Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang will participate in the SCO Heads of Government meeting during his four-day official visit.
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Sources have indicated that there will be a bilateral meeting and delegation-level discussions between the Prime Ministers at the Prime Minister’s House. Both Prime Ministers will discuss important regional and global issues of mutual interest.
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Additionally, Pakistan and China will look into the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and ongoing projects. During the visit, 16 agreements and memoranda of understanding will be signed in the presence of both Prime Ministers. The Chinese Prime Minister will also virtually inaugurate the Gwadar International Airport from Islamabad.
According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, the Chinese Prime Minister will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, parliamentary leaders, and senior military leadership. Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif will host a lunch in honor of the Chinese counterpart, while a dinner will be held in Prime Minister Li Qiang’s honor by the President of Pakistan.
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It should be noted that on October 16, the Chinese Prime Minister will represent his country at the SCO Summit.