Li's visit opens new chapter in China-Pakistan relations (3)

（Xinhua）  10:22, May 24, 2013  

NEW MEASURES TO EXPAND PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES

Chinese netizens refer to Pakistan as Iron Pak, meaning that the Chinese people view Pakistan as a trustworthy friend and the friendship is as solid as iron, Li said in a speech at the Pakistani parliament.

Although their "all-weather" friendship has strong public support, Li called on the two countries to further expand their people-to-people and cultural exchanges as they are the solid foundation for the development of bilateral ties.

The two sides also agreed on a series of measures to step up people-to-people exchanges, including expanding Chinese language training in Pakistan, opening more Confucius Institutes in the country, and designating 2015 as China-Pakistan Year of Friendly Exchanges.

During Li's visit, the Chinese premier planted a friendship tree together with Khoso and held talks with Pakistani friends who had made contributions to developing bilateral ties.

Li arrived here on Wednesday at the invitation of the Pakistani government following a trip to India. He wrapped up his visit to Pakistan and flew to Switzerland on Thursday. Li's four-nation maiden overseas trip will also take him to Germany.