Premier Zhu Rongji to Visit Pakistan

Chinese Premier Meets Pakistani Guest

---

Both China and Pakistan expect that Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji's upcoming visit to Pakistan will further the Sino-Pakistani relations.

This was disclosed in a meeting Thursday when Zhu met with visiting Pakistani Foreign Minister Abdul Sattar.

During the meeting, Sattar conveyed Pakistani Chief Executive Pervez Musharaf's regards to Zhu, saying that the friendship between the two countries dates back to ancient times and the two peoples have been good neighbors enjoying a peaceful co-existence.

The Pakistani government has always valued the development of its friendly and cooperative relations with China, added Sattar.

He noted that the Pakistani government and people are expecting Zhu's visit to Pakistan, which he believes is a milestone in the history of bilateral relations. The visit will also help further consolidate and strengthen the overall Pakistan- China cooperative partnership in the new century, Sattar stressed.

Sattar congratulated China on foiling an anti-China motion by the United States for the 10th time during the 57th session of the United Nations Human Rights Commission on April 18.

Pakistan upholds international justice and stands firmly against any country to make use of human rights to serve its own politics.

Zhu asked Sattar to convey his regards to Musharaf, noting that Sino-Pakistani relations are very good. Zhu said that this year is the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, which is worth celebrating.

In the past 50 years, the two sides have strictly adhered to the Five Principles of Peaceful Co-Existence, and have understood, trusted and supported each other, and shared weal and woe, Zhu said.

He pointed out that history has proven that Sino-Pakistani friendship is not only in the common interests of the two peoples, but also conducive to the promotion of peace and stability in the region and the world at large.

Zhu also voiced his appreciation for the Pakistani government's position on the human rights issue.

Zhu said he is looking forward to visiting Pakistan to exchange views with Pakistani leaders on furthering bilateral relations, so as to raise such relations to a new level.