Dar stresses need for further strengthening economic ties with China

ISLAMABAD: Amid the ongoing financial crisis being faced by the country, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Monday stressed the need to deepen bilateral relations with China with special focus on economy, trade and financial sectors.

He made the remarks while talking to Pang Chunxue, the charge’d affairs at the Chinese embassy, who called on the finance minister here in Islamabad today.

According to a statement issued by the finance ministry, Dar appreciated the deep-rooted historical bilateral relations between Pakistan and China, and much-admired Chinese support to Pakistan on multiple fronts.

The finance minister further updated the Charge’d Affairs about the progress on talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the completion of the 9th review.

He apprised her of the positive response of the various sectors of the economy on the Budget 2023-24, presented by the incumbent government despite difficult economic circumstances.

Dar expressed gratitude to Chunxue for the support and cooperation Pakistan has been receiving from the leadership in Beijing.

Chunxue reciprocated the sentiments and acknowledged the friendly relations between the two countries. She also assured of continuous support from the Chinese government to the people of Pakistan.

The two sides discussed various avenues, available to both countries in order to enhance the existing cooperation to unprecedented levels, read the statement.