Economic recovery soon — Imran
Prime Minister Imran Khan yesterday said that with the cooperation and opportunities offered by the Chinese government and companies, Pakistan would be able to get out of its present economic crisis.
Speaking at China’s Central Party School, the premier said: “Pakistan needs investment due to its current account deficit and China — through the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project — has given us foreign investment. They have given us an opportunity to attract investment.
“The multinational Chinese companies have encouraged us to get out of the present economic crisis,” he added. Khan — who is on a four-day visit to China till November 6 — has had meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.
Multi-dimensional aid
What China has offered to Pakistan is a great opportunity, the prime minister said, adding that CPEC was a great blessing that connected Pakistan with China, while Special Economic Zones (SEZs) also contributed to the economy.
“We need investment in Pakistan more than ever because of the mismanagement and corruption in the country over the last 15 years.
“We have also suffered from the war on terrorism,” he said.
The cricketer-turned-politician said Pakistan’s relationship with China was not limited to one area: it was multi-dimensional and Pakistan would learn from China’s policies on urbanisation, environment, waste management, with special focus on fighting corruption and poverty alleviation.
China supports peace efforts
China yesterday said it supported Pakistan’s “quest for peace through dialogue” to settle its disagreements with India.
A joint statement issued here after Prime Minister Khan’s talks with his Chinese counterparts, said that China backed Pakistan’s efforts to improve ties with India to settle “outstanding disputes”, without directly mentioning the Kashmir issue.
“China appreciates Pakistan’s quest for peace through dialogue, cooperation and negotiation, on the basis of mutual respect and equality, and supports Pakistan’s efforts in improving Pakistan-India relations and settling outstanding disputes between the two countries,” the joint statement said.