President Zardari to visit China, focus on trade and bilateral ties

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari will undertake an official visit to China from April 25 to May 1, the Foreign Office spokesperson announced, as Islamabad and Beijing mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.

During the visit, President Zardari is scheduled to travel to Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, where he will meet the provincial leadership to discuss avenues of cooperation. The engagements are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the areas of economic and trade collaboration.

According to the Foreign Office, discussions will centre on enhancing Pakistan-China relations and exploring opportunities to expand commercial partnerships. The visit comes at a time when both countries are seeking to deepen economic engagement and reinforce long-standing strategic cooperation.

Officials said the trip holds added significance as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China. Over the decades, the two countries have maintained close political, economic and defence ties, often describing their partnership as “all-weather”.

The visit is expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to review progress on existing initiatives and identify new areas of collaboration, particularly at the provincial level. Engagements in Hunan province are also likely to highlight sub-national cooperation, reflecting a growing emphasis on regional connectivity and trade facilitation.

Diplomatic observers view the visit as part of broader efforts by Islamabad to strengthen ties with key international partners, with China remaining central to Pakistan’s foreign policy and economic outlook.