Pakistan and China have mutually agreed to extend bilateral relations and work collectively, particularly in the aviation sector. Federal Minister for Aviation Lt. Gen. (ret.) Naeem Khalid Lodhi and the Chinese Ambassador in Pakistan, Yao Jing, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Hassan Baig and senior officials of the Aviation Division were also present on this occasion. The Chinese Ambassador appreciated the role of the caretaker government and that it has ensured free, fair and transparent general elections. He commended the efforts of the caretaker setup for the smooth transition of the government and expressed satisfaction on the overall conduct of general elections. The envoy said the caretaker government has made the successful democratic process to further pave the way for political stability in Pakistan, which is mandatory for the development of the country. The Aviation Minister thanked the Ambassador and informed him on steps taken for the uplift of the aviation industry. It was mutually decided to extend co-operation for the development of airport projects and enhancement of air travel facilities between the two countries. Mr Lodhi appreciated the co-operation of China for building and developing the Gwadar Airport project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Construction of the New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) will start by the end of 2018. The airport will be capable of managing a combination of ATR 72, Airbus A300), Boeing 737 and Boeing 747 aircraft for national and international flights. China and Pakistan also discussed technical co-operation in the field of aviation, particularly in aircraft maintenance and engineering services. The Ambassador said that China and Pakistan are friends and this strategic partnership is unique in many ways, and both countries have undoubtedly supported each other through thick and thin. Both sides affirmed to strengthen the regional co-operation and bilateral relations to ensure the prosperity and sustainable development of the aviation sector. #1079.21

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