ISLAMABAD: Punjab Chief Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi became first Pakistani Chief Minister to have inaugurated Third Nintia International Friends Cities Forum in Chinese province of Nintia.

Addressing event he said that it was government of Pakistan’s resolve to ensure peace, stability and prosperity in region.

He was of the view that close relations between Pakistan and China were imperative if these goals were to be achieved. CM further said that both countries were all-weather friends and strategic partners.

He expressed hope that ties between two countries would continue to improve with passage of time. “Both Pakistan and China have been cooperating with each other in various fields for last 70 years,” he said. “Countries have proved that mutual understanding is necessary for strengthening of relations.”

CM Naqvi said that 10 years of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and belt and road initiative would be completed this year. He stressed need for making collective efforts for completion of work on special economic zones and rapid development of Gwadar Port.

He said it was matter of great honour and prestige for him to attend Forum and address gathering. “I am thankful to Communist Party and Chinese people for organising event since it has given us an opportunity to sit together and benefit from each other’s expertise.” he said. “In past, several Chinese had travelled to India and observed the Gandhara and Indus Valley civilisations.”

CM said it was good sign that there had been continuous exchange of delegations and cultural troupes between cities and provinces of two countries for last seven decades, which had kept ties between two countries intact.

China was Pakistan’s largest trade partner. “And trade between two countries has grown considerably over past few years,” he informed.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 21 2023

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