Pakistan courts China’s investment in energy sector

Pakistani President Asif Zardari is in Beijing on a six-day visit to expand trade and economic relations and secure investment in the energy sector.

Following a two-hour meeting, Chinese President Hu Jintao confirmed China’s decision to invest in Pakistan’s energy sector as well as expressed both nations’ commitment to fight terrorism.

With talks of energy cooperation and rumors of further nuclear agreements in the offing, it appears that US influence over Pakistan may be waning.

“China and Pakistan have been partners for 40 years now,” said policy analyst Anatol Lieven. “Initially, it was motivated my mutual hostility to India. Now, in addition, China has a very strong interest in Pakistan as a future energy route from the Persian Gulf to China.”