Premier Li Keqiang has begun an official visit to Pakistan, aiming to deepen the long-standing friendship between the two neighboring countries.

Premier Li was welcomed at the airport by Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and interim Prime Minister Mir Hazar Khan Khoso on May 22, 2013. In a statement upon his arrival, Li said he brought with him the Chinese people’s friendship to the Pakistani people. He said Pakistan is a key Southern Asian country and has made important contributions to peace, stability and development in the region and around the world.

As all-weather strategic partners, Li said China would firmly consolidate and develop China-Pakistan relations no matter how the international and regional situation changes. He added China would continue to support Pakistan’s efforts to preserve its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Pakistan is the second stop on Li’s first overseas trip since he assumed the premiership in March of 2013. He left Mumbai earlier in the day after concluding a visit to India.