Nawaz seeks Li’s help to resolve energy crisis
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ISLAMABAD: PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif has said strengthening ties with China will be his government’s top foreign policy priority and sought Beijing’s help for dealing with economic challenges and energy deficit.
Mr Sharif, whose party won the May 11 elections and is headed to forming the government at the centre, said this during a meeting with visiting Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang here on Thursday.
The two leaders had informally met a day earlier at a reception hosted by President Asif Ali Zardari in honour of premier Li.
A number of world leaders had called to greet Mr Sharif on his party’s victory in the elections. However, this was first foreign policy engagement of Mr Sharif who will be leading the next government as prime minister.
The PML-N chief described China as Pakistan’s time-tested friend and said a strong, stable and prosperous China was necessary for peace and stability in the region. He said he would encourage China to assume a greater role in the revival of Pakistan’s economy and dealing with energy shortages.
Pakistani and Chinese leaders had during their formal talks on Wednesday agreed to reconvene the Pak-China Joint Working Group on Energy which would discuss various options for helping Pakistan cope with energy shortages, including nuclear energy. The Chinese prime minister had also identified energy as a priority area for cooperation.
Mr Li recalled Mr Sharif’s role in expanding Pak-China ties during his previous tenures and said China viewed him as a sincere and committed friend. He expressed good wishes for the incoming government.
The two leaders exchanged views on several other regional and international issues, including India and Afghanistan.
Premier Li invited Mr Sharif to visit China for carrying forward discussions on the areas of cooperation identified by him.
The PML-N chief accepted the invitation and said he looked forward to an early opportunity for traveling to Beijing.
China has traditionally been one of the first overseas stop for Pakistani leaders after their election to the office of prime minister.
