CPEC will transform lives of billions in region: PM Sharif to Chinese delegation

Islamabad: Describing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a game changer that would transform the lives of the billions of people in Asia, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif told a visiting Chinese delegation that Pakistan and China are iron brothers and Islamabad's friendship with Beijing is the cornerstone of his government's foreign policy.

Interacting with China's Executive Vice Foreign Minister Yesui Zhang, who called on him on Tuesday, Sharif thanked the Chinese government for its continued support on its bid for becoming a member of the NSG and its stand at the UNSC 1267 Committee.

He also appreciated China's diplomatic and material support to Pakistan in its fight against terrorism.

He also welcomed participation of the Executive Vice Foreign Minister as a Representative of the Government of People's Republic of China in the ECO Summit on special invitation.

Sharif, according to Radio Pakistan, said he will visit China in May in 2017 to participate in the "Belt and Road Forum" for International Cooperation (BRF) at the invitation of President Xi Jinping.

Executive Vice Foreign Minister Yesui also called on Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, Syed Tariq Fatemi.

Both discussed Pakistan-China relations, the ECO Summit and regional situation.