BEJING: Pakistan and China today resolved to further enhance and deepen the bilateral cooperation with the pledge to play a key role for regional stability through Shanghai Coordination Cooperation (SCO).

This was stated by Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif after a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting held here at Diaoyutai State Guest House.

The foreign minister said that during the meeting held in a very cordial atmosphere, his Chinese counterpart termed Pakistan and China as close friends, all-weather strategic and cooperative partners.

Wang Yi also appreciated Pakistan’s active participation in the SCO and expressed China’s strong support to Pakistan’s efforts in enhancing regional peace and cooperation besides its tireless efforts in countering terrorism in the country, he added.

Khawaja Asif highly appreciated the vibrant role of the SCO in the region and said it was significantly vital forum for regional cooperation.

He informed that Pakistan was looking forward to productive and fruitful meeting of the heads of states of the SCO at Qingdao in June this year.

President Mamnoon Hussain would participate in the summit.

The foreign minister also expressed his appreciation for the Chinese initiative of Pakistan-China-Afghanistan Foreign Ministers Trilateral Mechanism for enhancing cooperation with Afghanistan.

Khawaja Asif also apprised Wang Yi of grave situation prevailing in Indian held Kashmir (IHK).

He congratulated Wing Yi on his re-election as foreign minister and his elevation as State Councilor.

He also congratulated him on re-election of Xi Jinping as president of People Republic of China and as core leader of Communist Party of China (CPC).

Khawaja Asif also informed him about Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi’s visit of China earlier this month and his participation in successful and productive Boao Forum for Asia conference.

“In his speech, the prime minister lauded the visionary address of President Xi at Boao forum based on the principle of shared prosperity and win-win cooperation.The two leaders also held a highly productive bilateral meeting there,” he added.

Pakistan Ambassador to China, Masood Khalid and other senior diplomats of two countries
were present.