Premier Li Keqiang met with Pakistan’s army chief, General Raheel Sharif, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on May 16.

Premier Li said that China and Pakistan have long-term political mutual trust. Their armies have close communications, which provides a supportive guarantee for cooperation between the two countries, he said.

As the two sides will celebrate 65 years of diplomatic relations, the Premier expressed the hope that the two countries can strengthen high-level visits, and deepen communications and cooperation in all fields. The two sides should also stay in close communication on regional problems, maintain regional peace and promote mutual development, the Premier said.

Premier Li pointed out that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not only the flagship project of practical cooperation between the two countries, it is also beneficial to regional development and prosperity.

China appreciates the strong support to the construction of the corridor offered by Pakistan’s government and army. It is believed that the advantages of a long-term friendship, close in location and economically complementary, can be fully played if both sides make efforts, Premier Li said.

Hailing the friendly ties between the two countries, Raheel said Pakistan’s army cherishes the relationship and hopes the economic corridor can be completed as soon as possible. Raheel said that they will guarantee a safe environment for the construction of the economic corridor.

Pakistan is willing to further strengthen cooperation in all fields between the two countries and their armies, maintain regional peace and boost bilateral ties, Raheel said.