Islamabad said on Monday the government and people of Pakistan look forward to the visit of Premier Li Keqiang, which will take place from May 22 to 23.

It is the first visit of Li to Pakistan after becoming premier of China, said a statement of Pakistan's Foreign Ministry.

"The visit also provides further impetus to our strategic relations. These friendly ties and the friendship with China is the cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy," it said.

"It will provide an opportunity to Premier Li to meet the new leadership in Pakistan," the statement said.

Li would be the first world leader to visit Pakistan after the country's elections were held on Saturday, which reflects the strong bonds of friendship between the two countries, NewsPakistan website reported.

The two sides will discuss bilateral ties, focusing on promotion of economic cooperation. They will also discuss regional issues and their role for peace as well as Afghanistan, according to NewsPakistan.

China Daily

(China Daily 05/14/2013 page11)