President Pervez Musharraf will pay a five-day state visit to China February 19-23 in response to an invitation from Chinese President Hu Jintao, officials said. The visit is highly significant, reinforcing the Pak-China strategic cooperative partnership in various fields of common interest, officials said. The visit will also help promote their understanding and cooperation in regional and international affairs. Musharraf visited Beijing earlier in November 2003, during which the two sides inked historical joint declaration, pushing forward their multifaceted cooperative relationship. During his stay in Beijing, Musharraf would hold talks with top Chinese leaders including President Hu Jintao, Primer Wen Jiabao and senior members of Chinese Think-tanks and business executives. Officials said China considers Pakistan a true and reliable friend and looks forward to further consolidating the existing all-round relationship. Musharraf's visit will unveil a series of events marking the 55th anniversary of establishment of China-Pakistan diplomatic ties. During the talks, the two sides will discuss how to further promote friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Pakistan. They will also exchange views on international and regional issues of common concern. Musharraf is scheduled to address a business conference in Beijing and witness a cultural show, being held on the occasion to mark the 55th anniversary. Musharraf will also visit southwest China's Sichuan Province.
