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Pakistan, China vow to boost defence ties

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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan and China have decided to strengthen their defence ties. This was announced during a meeting between Chinese Defence Minister Chang Wanquan and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif at the General Headquarters.

The meeting was followed by delegation-level bilateral talks, said an ISPR press release.

During the meeting, issues of mutual interest, regional security and measures to enhance bilateral defence collaboration were discussed.

Earlier, on arrival at General Headquarters, a smartly-turned-out contingent presented the guard of honour to the Chinese defence minister, who laid a floral wreath at the Yadgar-e-Shuhuda and paid rich tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan Army for peace and stability in the region.

Meanwhile, Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif said on Thursday that Pakistan and China enjoy deep-rooted, brotherly relations and Pakistan's friendship with China was a cornerstone of its foreign policy. During a meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Asif said,

"We have unique ties with China which are unparalleled in contemporary era and interstate relations". He said Sino-Pak relations are based on solid footings, excellent cooperation and convergence of views on global and regional issues.

"Such visits are testimony to our desire to further strengthen our relations," he added. Sino-Pakistan have different forums of interactions and bilateral mechanisms like strategic dialogue, consular consultations and counter-terrorism consultations to further the strategic partnership, he said.

The Chinese side expressed the hope to further enhance the cooperation in all areas of importance to both countries. The defence minister said that "Pakistan supports one China Policy on issues of Taiwan, Tibet, Xingiang and Human Rights".

Both sides also greatly focused on promoting economic integration, development and trade. The defence minister highlighted the importance of China-Pakistan corridor, which would transform the regional economy.

End.