News
Friday, May 24, 2013
Nawaz seeks N-power from China to ease energy crisis
* PM-in-waiting says his government will accord highest priority to deepening relations with Beijing
* Li pledges ‘urgent’ help; invites Nawaz to visit China
By Tanveer Ahmed
ISLAMABAD: Prime minister-in-waiting Nawaz Sharif on Thursday sought Chinese assistance on civilian nuclear technology to tackle the severe energy shortage which is being dubbed as the gravest challenge to the upcoming government.
Nawaz who held a meeting with visiting Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang discussed a range of issues with him, including strategic cooperation, defence collaboration, bilateral trade. He asked China to provide civilian nuclear technology to help the country reduce energy shortages, sources privy to the meeting told Daily Times. About the relations with China, the PML-N chief declared that his government would accord the highest priority to deepening and further reinforcing of the existing excellent relations with the neighbouring country.
He described China as Pakistan’s time-tested friend that had stood by it during difficult periods in history and added that a strong, stable and prosperous China was an important factor in the maintenance of peace and stability in the region. Nawaz recalled that during his earlier tenures, the two countries had cooperated in many important spheres and it would be his endeavour to encourage China to assume a greater role in the revival of Pakistan’s economy, with special reference to easing the crippling energy shortage.
The visiting Chinese premier offered congratulations and good wishes to Nawaz on his party’s success in general elections and reiterated that the Chinese people had deep respect for the former prime minister. He said that China viewed Nawaz Sharif as a sincere and committed friend whose contribution to expanding cooperation between the two countries was highly appreciated.
The Chinese premier also gave an assurance that given the special relations between the two countries, it would be his government’s endeavour to expand its cooperation with Pakistan in all sectors, especially those that needed urgent attention. Apart from a comprehensive review of bilateral issues, the two sides touched on a number of regional and international issues of common interest.
Prime Minster Li invited Nawaz to visit China to shape up the many ideas that were exchanged in the meeting. Responding to the invitation Nawaz replied that he looked forward to an early opportunity of exchanging views with the Chinese leadership, as this would be of mutual benefit to both.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk