BEIJING: Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that during his upcoming visit, he hopes to further strengthen China-Pakistan strategic ties as well as commercial and business connections, media reported.
In an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), he stated, "I hope the visit will result in further strengthening our strategic connections and expanding commerce and trade with China."

On November 1, the prime minister is due to arrive in China for an official visit. His trip to China is his first since he assumed office in April. The prime minister declared that he will also talk about CPEC's involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative.

According to The News, Shehbaz Sharif is one of the first international leaders to travel to China following the end of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in Beijing.

"The fact that I am one of the first international leaders to visit my brotherly and friendly country China makes me feel incredibly honoured and moved. That demonstrates and reflects the breadth of our relationship and the tenacity of our connection" he added.

The prime minister expressed excitement for his discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Keqiang, and other members of the Chinese leadership to advance cooperation in a number of areas.

He said that the main project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), CPEC, which has entered a high-quality second phase, has revolutionised Pakistan's energy sector and infrastructure. He said, "People can now easily reach from one area to another because of the road network created under CPEC in all sections of the country.

The News reported that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on Sunday that Pakistan aimed to increase industrial collaboration while  also making the most of the second phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement in order to strengthen trade and investment links with China.

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