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Decision on CTBT

after consensus: CE

BEIJING: Chief Executive Gen Pervez Musharraf on Monday informed the Chinese Prime Minister Zhu Rong Ji that Pakistan has initiated discussion and debate at home and "a decision on CTBT will be made on the basis of national consensus."

Talking to APP foreign minister Abdul Sattar said the chief executive during meeting with Chinese leader appreciated China's constant support to Pakistan's progress towards economic development and domestic stability.

"Ours is an all-weather relationship", he quoted the chief executive as telling the Chinese leader.

He said General Musharraf invited Chinese Premier to visit Pakistan which Zhu Rong Ji readily accepted. The dates of the visit would be decided through diplomatic channels.

The Chief Executive also appreciated the spontaneous decision of Chinese Premier to postpone loans to Pakistan that were due up to December 1999. These loans would be rescheduled for payment between 2010 and 2019.

The Chinese Premier said his country had already signed Comprehensive Test ban Treaty (CTBT) and it would undertake procedures for its ratification as soon as possible.

After the talks Chinese Premier Zhu Rong Ji hosted dinner for Chief Executive General Pervez Musharraf.

The dinner was also attended by the Chief Executive's brief entourage and senior Pakistani and Chinese officials.

CE CHINA VISIT

Earlier on his arrival statement Chief Executive Gen Pervez Musharraf eulogised China as the most reliable and trusted friend of Pakistan.

"China is a country which Pakistan holds dear as its most reliable and trusted friend," the Chief Executive asid in his statement.

"I am overwhelmed by the warm welcome accorded to me, my wife and members of my entourage," he said and added "my visit to China is a reaffirmation of our close and fraternal ties."

General Musharraf said he brought with him warm greetings and best wishes of the people of Pakistan for the great people of China for a very happy and prosperious new year and new century.

"Our two countries shall strive to further strengthen the dynamic relations in the new century," he added.

The Chief Executive was received by Yang Wenehernig, Senior Vice Foreign Minister, senior Chinese officials, Chinese ambassador to Pakistan Lu Shulin and his Pakistani counterpart in Beijing Ambassador Riaz A. Khokhar.

Ambassador Lu Shulin, who is well conversant with Urdu, greeted the Chief Executive with "Khush Amdeed (Welcome)".

Representatives of Pakistani community in China were also present at the airport to greet the Chief Executive.

Two Chinese girls and two Pakistani children attired in colourful national costumes presented bouquet to the Chief Executive.ÑAPP