Pakistani president visits China

BEIJING, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Asif Ali Zardari, on his first trip to China since becoming president of Pakistan, planned to show the world "how close" are the ties between the two nations.

Speaking to Xinhua news agency before leaving Tuesday on a four-day trip to Pakistan's close ally, Zardari said he hasn't visited China in 24 years.

"I am hoping to remind the leadership of the world how close our relationships are," he said.

Zardari planned to conclude several agreements during his trip.

Pakistan's Dawn newspaper reported the various memorandums of understanding will include those concerning trade, counter-terrorism, commerce, banking and power.

The report said there had been speculation the countries may conclude a nuclear deal but that understanding hasn't been confirmed.

Pakistan reportedly is interested in securing a civilian nuclear deal similar to the just-concluded agreement between India and United States.

The Dawn report, quoting sources, said Pakistan has decided to purchase scanners, arms and other equipment from China instead of the United States.

Pakistan-China bilateral trade currently estimated at $7 billion is expected to grow to $15 billion in two years, the report said.