BEIJING – Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China called newly-elected Prime Minister Imran Khan to felicitate him on the assumption of the office.
Keqiang congratulated Khan on his party’s victory in general elections and forming the new government. He added that Pakistan and China are all-weather friends.
The Chinese counterpart expressed the desire to work closely with Imran Khan to further strengthen Pakistan-China bilateral relations. He hoped that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will be completed as per schedule.
Premier Li Keqiang extended an invitation to the new PM of Pakistan to visit China.
In response, Khan thanked the Premier and people of China for their good wishes. He said that Pakistan and China are close friends and strong partners. The strategic cooperative partnership between Pakistan and China will be further strengthened during PTI’s government.
Khan conveyed that he is keen to learn from Chinese experience in poverty alleviation, anti-corruption and social sector reforms like health and education as these are his government’s priorities for domestic reforms.
The new premier said that CPEC is a project of national significance and will remain a priority during his government. He lauded the services of Chinese workers in the development of Pakistan.
He vowed to continue to closely coordinate with China on all regional and international issues of mutual concern.
Khan thanked Premier Li Keqiang for his invitation. He said that he is eagerly looking forward to his first visit to China. The prime minister also extended an invitation to Premier Li Keqiang to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.
