Islamabad, A delegation from the Chinese International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), led by Chairman Lou Zhaohai, began a significant five-day visit to Pakistan from April 21 to April 25, 2024, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing economic cooperation. Accompanied by China’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, the delegation held key meetings with Pakistani officials to explore avenues of collaboration on various development projects.
According to Press Information Department, the delegation met with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Ahad Khan Cheema, at the Ministry of Economic Affairs. The Minister extended a warm welcome to Chairman Zhaohai, acknowledging CIDCA’s vital role in supporting Pakistan’s development initiatives and strengthening the enduring partnership between the two nations. He expressed condolences over a recent tragic incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and assured that the Pakistani government was taking steps to enhance security for Chinese officials working in Pakistan.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Secretary of Planning Development and Special Initiatives, Secretary of the Interior, and Acting Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division. Discussions covered a range of topics, including ongoing and future projects, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and post-flood reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Minister Cheema highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to bilateral cooperation, particularly in projects focused on improving the livelihoods and well-being of its citizens. He also congratulated Chairman Zhaohai on receiving a prestigious Civil Award from the Pakistani government in recognition of his contributions to Pakistan’s development.
In response, Chairman Zhaohai expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and the Civil Award. He appreciated the broad scope of cooperation between China and Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of economic collaboration as the cornerstone of their relationship. He reaffirmed CIDCA’s dedication to supporting Pakistan’s economic development efforts.
The meeting concluded with both sides expressing optimism for the future, highlighting the importance of sustained collaboration to achieve mutual prosperity and advancement. They agreed to intensify bilateral cooperation through future technical-level discussions.
Minister Cheema assured Chairman Zhaohai of Pakistan’s full support in fostering strong bilateral ties with China, reinforcing the commitment to ongoing partnership and economic growth.