Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated Beijing's willingness to invest in Pakistan despite obstacles in recent years due to security concerns and the global economic downturn.

Jinping noted the strategic partnership between the countries during a meeting in Beijing with newly elected Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Xinhua reported.

During the meeting, he said he was very concerned about the safety of the Chinese in Pakistan and hopes that Pakistan can provide a safe and secure environment for Chinese institutions and personnel conducting cooperation in Pakistan.

Sharif's office said in a statement that he thanked Jinping for China's invaluable assistance to Pakistan's relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts after the devastation caused by the floods in the country.

The two sides agreed to accelerate the implementation of projects and discussed expanding Chinese investment in Afghanistan, it was noted.