China, Pakistan eye better cooperation, further regional integration (2)

（Xinhua）  09:24, July 06, 2013  

Li and Sharif agreed to bolster the bilateral strategic partnership by intensifying high-level exchanges, stepping up trade cooperation, strengthening the mutual linkage and usage of the two markets and two infrastructures, cementing humanitarian exchanges and working closer on defense, security and counterterrorism agendas.

They also agreed to maintain close coordination and cooperation on significant regional and international issues, in a bid to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.

Hailing the traditional Pakistan-China friendship, Sharif said his visit to China, his first foreign visit since he took office in May, was aimed at promoting bilateral cooperation to a new high.

He also expressed his appreciation for China's long-term aid and help.

Pakistan will make utmost efforts to ensure the safety and security of Chinese citizens and institutions there, and it is committed to fostering pragmatic cooperation with China in various fields, the Pakistani prime minister pledged.

Li and Sharif also witnessed the signing of a series of cooperation documents and the two nations also released "Common Vision for Deepening China-Pakistan Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era," a cooperation paper.

At Li's invitation, Sharif is on an official visit to China from July 3 to 8.