China-Pakistan relations of equality, mutual trust stand weatherproof (2)

In parallel with political and military cooperation, economic ties between China and Pakistan have been strengthened.

In recent years, bilateral trade has kept growing by more than 20 percent annually in spite of global economic slowdown, yielding great dividends for the people in the two countries.

Both sides are increasingly aware of the importance of cultural and people-to-people exchanges in bilateral ties. An MOU has been signed on establishing cultural centers in both countries. Every year, hundreds of Pakistani students visited and studied in China.

China and Pakistan can always count on each other for sincere and selfless support and assistance. China has taken an active part in the rescue and relief work and reconstruction after massive floods hit Pakistan, while the Pakistanis have done alike for the Chinese.

The world is undergoing profound and complex changes, and it is more imperative for China and Pakistan to strengthen the strategic coordination and cooperation.

Premier Li's visit, during which he will meet Pakistani leaders and sign a host of agreements, is expected to consolidate friendship and enhance cooperation between the two countries.