Beijing, 10 March 2024 (WAI): Chinese President Xi Jinping warmly congratulated Asif Ali Zardari for securing his second term as President of Pakistan. President Xi emphasized the enduring friendship between China and Pakistan and reaffirmed China’s commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation under Zardari’s leadership.
President Xi Jinping expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with President-elect Zardari in various fields, highlighting the significant progress achieved through initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The President underscored the fruitful results of the CPEC and stressed the historical partnership and cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
President Zardari is slated to take the oath as Pakistan’s 14th head of state today, with dignitaries including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and all three service chiefs in attendance. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa will administer the oath to President Zardari following his victory in the presidential election, where he secured 411 electoral votes.
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Zardari’s re-election marks a historic milestone, making him the civilian President to serve a second term. His victory was secured through the support of allied parties, including the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P).
Born in 1955, Asif Ali Zardari has been a prominent figure in Pakistani politics, previously serving as the 11th president of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013. He has been a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan since August 2018. Zardari, who was married to Benazir Bhutto, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has continued his public service and leadership legacy.
President Zardari will succeed Dr. Arif Alvi, who completed his five-year term in September 2023. His re-election signifies a new chapter in Pakistan’s political landscape and further strengthens the enduring ties between China and Pakistan.
Political Analyst | M.Phil. Scholar