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Joint production of JF-17 Thunder Aircraft holds strategic significance for Pak, China: PM Aziz

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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz Thursday said Joint production of JF-17 Thunder Aircraft holds strategic significance for Pakistan and China and will help take our friendship to new heights.

Talking to Mr. Jin Zhuanglong, Vice Minister, Commission of Science and Technology and Industry of National Defence (COSTIND) China who called on him Thursday, the Prime Minister said the JF-17 Aircraft will add value to the air forces of the two countries and Pakistan is keen to enter into more joint ventures with China in order to promote and enhance the existing collaboration in the field of defence production.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan hopes that with gradual transfer of technology the aircraft will be manufactured in Pakistan.

JF-17 Thunder Aircraft is the symbol of Pak-China friendship and we are happy that his vision has become a reality", the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister said China is a major global power and Pakistan is proud to have a deep and multifaceted relationship with it. He said that Pakistan and China enjoy a broad-based relationship as the two countries are actively cooperating in political, diplomatic, social, economic, defence, security fields and the friendship between Pakistan and China is source of strength and stability for the region.

The Prime Minister said that the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China is based on principles, trust and shared perceptions. Both Pakistan and China are working for peace in the region and progress and prosperity of their people.

The Prime Minister said that Pakistan considers China`s economic growth and tremendous transformation a great model of growth, peace and prosperity. It is a source of pride and strength for the developing world and especially Pakistan.

Talking of the country`s defence policy the Prime Minister said Pakistan is not an offensive country and our defence doctrine is based on having minimum credible deterrence to maintain peace and stability in the region, and to safeguard our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Pakistan is playing a stabilizing role in the region and has no intention to enter into an arms race with any country, he added.

Jin Zhuanglong said joint production of JF-17 Thunder Aircraft a testimony to the strong and strategic relationship between Pakistan and China and China is delighted that the project has been completed on time.

He said this joint production is a great achievement and example of successful cooperation in the defense sector.

Mr. Jin Zhuanglong said China considers Pakistan an important neighbour and a great friend. He said China is keen to strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in all areas including defense and security.

The meeting was attended among others by Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Tanvir Mahmood Ahmad, and senior officials.

End.