Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is in Beijing to boost bilateral ties with China, and seek more investment from the world’s second largest economy.

Premier Li Keqiang welcomed Khan at the Great Hall of the People and held talks with him after the ceremony.

Premier Li said China and Pakistan are all-weather partners, adding that Pakistan has always been regarded as a foreign policy priority by China.

And both sides agreed to firmly move forward with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a multi-billion-dollar project at the heart of President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Premier Li and Prime Minister Khan also witnessed the signing of several documents regarding cooperation in science and technology, agriculture, healthcare, customs and judiciary.

Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou said, “The two sides have decided to establish a working group on social and livelihood affairs under the CPEC joint cooperation committee. The two countries will also engage in closer cooperation in extensive areas covering economy, trade, science and technology, cultural affairs, education and youth affairs. The two sides will also strengthen their cooperation on regional and global affairs. In addition, in response to the current economic and fiscal difficulties Pakistan faces at the moment, China will offer help and assistance to Pakistan within the realm of its capability.”

The Pakistani prime minister also invited Premier Li to visit Pakistan and see for himself the difference the mega-project has made in the country.

Khan said the CPEC has given Pakistan an opportunity to raise the country’s standard of living.

This is Khan’s first official visit to China since assuming office. Besides Beijing, he will also attend the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai.

Both sides attach great importance to this visit and believe high-level exchanges will further boost the development of China-Pakistan relations.