KASHGAR: A grand dinner was hosted in honor of President Asif Ali Zardari in Kashgar, where he was warmly welcomed by Xinjiang’s Vice Governor Ni Zhuang, who arranged the event. The occasion reflected the deep-rooted friendship and growing partnership between Pakistan and China.
In his remarks, President Zardari expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him. He observed that the remarkable pace of development in Chinese cities is both impressive and inspiring, while the warmth and generosity of the Chinese people provide him with a sense of encouragement and positive energy.
The President also paid glowing tribute to the visionary leadership of President Xi Jinping, acknowledging his role in shaping China’s progress and strengthening regional cooperation.
Vice Governor Ni Zhuang, in his address, highlighted that the people of Kashgar and Pakistan are bound together through centuries-old historical, cultural, and trade linkages.
He emphasized that Kashgar looks forward to deepening cooperation with Pakistan in diverse fields, particularly in trade, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, so that the longstanding relationship between the two sides continues to flourish.
The dinner was attended by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla along with the ambassadors of both Pakistan and China, further underscoring the importance of the event in reinforcing bilateral ties.
President Zardari’s ongoing visit to China has been marked by a series of high-level engagements aimed at enhancing cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework. His presence in Kashgar, a city with historical significance in Pakistan-China relations, is seen as an important step toward expanding regional connectivity and mutual prosperity.
Observers note that such interactions reflect the commitment of both nations to not only strengthen government-to-government cooperation but also to foster closer people-to-people bonds.
The cultural warmth and historical depth of ties between Pakistan and China continue to serve as the foundation for a relationship that both sides regard as unique and time-tested.