Briefly

CHINA

More exchanges pledged with Pakistan

Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, on Tuesday held talks with Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, speaker of Pakistan's National Assembly, via video link. Zhao said China is willing to strengthen strategic cooperation with Pakistan and promote the building of a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era. Ashraf said that Pakistan firmly supports China's core interests and is willing to work with China on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and joint building of the Belt and Road.

VP emphasizes cooperation with US

Vice-President Han Zheng met on Wednesday with Alfred F. Kelly, executive chairman of Visa, in Beijing. Han emphasized the importance of deepening economic and trade cooperation between China and the United States for mutual benefit, which he said plays a vital role in ensuring the global industrial and supply chains. China is unwavering in its commitment to expanding high-level opening-up and welcomes enterprises from all countries, including those from the US to invest and do business in China, he said.

CAMBODIA

Hun Sen to retire, hand baton to Manet

Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen said on Wednesday that he will retire after serving as the premier for 38 years in the Southeast Asian nation and will pass on the reins of power to his eldest son Hun Manet. Hun Sen said the National Assembly will convene for the first time on Aug 21, and the new five-year-term government will be sworn in on Aug 22. Hun Sen said the political power will be still in his hands because he is still the president of the ruling party.

China Daily - Xinhua