China is a sincere friend of Pakistan and playing an important role in its progress as well as people of both the countries had deep love and affection for each other.
 

These remarks were made by Mr.Zafar Bakhtawari, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry while attending a seminar in Kashgar (China). Government officials and trade representatives from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Turkey, Iran, Turkmenistan and Russia were also present on the occasion.
 

Referring to the importance of Kashgar, Mr.Bakhtawari said that development of Kashgar city was not only a positive sign for China but also for Pakistan as Kashgar Special Economic Zone provides good opportunities to Pakistani business community for doing business with Chinese counterparts.
 

He suggested that a direct air link from Kashgar to Islamabad should be set up as it was only a 50miles air travel between two cities while air travel from Islamabad to Urunchi takes 24hours, thus direct air link between Kashgar and Islamabad would ultimately further improve bilateral relation between China and Pakistan. 
 

President of ICCI said that establishment of new Guangzhou city on Karakorum Highway which is only 15km away from Kashgar is not only in the best interest of Pakistan but also for whole Central Asia.  
 

He said that a rail link between Kashgar and Islamabad should also be established alongwith up-gradation of road link between two cities. Kashgar Authority also informed the business leaders of Pakistan that direct flights from Kashgar to Islamabad will be started from April-2013.