Pakistan president to visit China in mid-October

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari is likely to visit China in the middle of next month, said Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Luo Zhaohui here Wednesday. “The exact date of the visit is being worked out through diplomatic channels” he said adding “We are eagerly awaiting him for pushing forward our ever-green relations.

In a brief chat with media at a reception he hosted in honour of Pakistani contingent that participated in Beijing Olympics and Beijing 2008 Paralympics Games, he said China attached great importance to its relations with Pakistan and wished it should continue to grow, fulfilling the common aspirations of their peoples.

The Sports Minister Najamuddin Khan and President National Paralympics Committee of Pakistan Tariq Masood also addressed the reception.

Responding to a question, he hoped the two Chinese engineers who were recently kidnapped will soon be freed.

The ambassador said he appreciated the efforts being made by the government of Pakistan to secure their release.

Addressing the reception, Luo Chaohui congratulated the Pakistani athletes on their active participation in two important sports’ events. He praised athlete Haider Ali for winning a Silver medal in Long Jump event, adding Chinese people are delighted over the success of Pakistani side.

The Sports Minister greeted the Chinese government and the people for most successfully hosting the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics. This, he added, reflects China’s rich potential to have a leading position in the comity of the nations.