Chinese vice premier to visit Pakistan for Independence Day celebrations

By APD Writer Muhammad Sohail

ISLAMABAD, Aug. 12 (APD) - Vice Premier of the People’s Republic of China Wang Yang will reach Pakistan on Sunday for a two-day visit to participate in Pakistan’s 70th independence celebrations, officials said on Saturday.

According to an official from Pakistan’s foreign ministry, Wang will participate in the flag hoisting ceremony as a special guest in Islamabad on Monday, Aug. 14, 70th anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence Day.

The Chinese vice premier, on the directions of Chinese President Xi Jinping, will lead a high-powered delegation and is expected to meet Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi during the visit.

Wang is also scheduled to participate in the inauguration ceremonies of several projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and witness the signing of bilateral memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the two countries.

In March, a contingent of the guard of honor of the three services of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) took part in the Pakistan military parade held in Islamabad to mark Pakistan Day.

Chinese leader’s visit on this important milestone for Pakistan is a reflection of the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between Pakistan and China.

The special visit of Vice Premier Wang underscores the close brotherly and cooperative ties between Pakistan and China and China's strong political support for Pakistan, a statement said.

Special security and welcome arrangements have been finalized for the visit.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)