Wuhan (China), Feb. 22 : In a bid to strengthen ties with its long time ally, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the ports of the country were open to cater to the needs of Chinese cargo ships.

"We will encourage Chinese companies to come to Pakistan as Pakistan is geo-strategically located and provides them access to the rest of the world through our warm waters," The Nation quoted Zardari, as saying.

Zardari, who is on a visit to China to enhance ties between both the countries, said his party (Pakistan's People's Party), and government wanted a greater association in business ties.

"My party and my government want to strengthen these relations which are historical and very vast and we are proud of China's progress," he said.

Zardari commended the Chinese media for maintaining a `positive attitude' towards Islamabad.

Zardari also met the Governor of Hubei province, Lihong Zhong here.

Both the leaders discussed about greater co-operation in the field of hydro-electricity and agriculture. (ANI)