Army Chief arrives in China on three-day official visit

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday arrived in China on a three day official visit which includes interactions with Chinese senior political and military leadership.

Gen. Bajwa held meetings with Executive Vice Premier Mr. Zhang Gaoli, Vice Chairman Central Military Commission General Fan Changlong , Chief of Joint Services Department General Fang Funghui,  and  Commander People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Li Zuocheng.

They discussed matters related to regional security, economy, defence cooperation and mutual interest.

The Chinese leadership expressed complete understanding of the geo-political and economic cum security environment of the region and its implications for both the countries.

They acknowledged positive role being played by Pakistan towards peace and stability in the region with special mention of Pakistan’s role in eliminating terrorist groups including Al Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and ETIM from Pakistan.

The Chinese leadership expressed their concern on Afghan security situation and growing potential threat of ISIS in Afghanistan.

The Chinese leadership expressed their confidence in security arrangements for China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and satisfaction on progress of the project.

Gen Bajwa thanked Chinese leadership for their defence support and cooperation which is source of strength for unique all weather friendship between the two countries and their people.

He reiterated that Pakistan Army will continue to positively contribute towards regional stability and security. Both sides agreed to continue and further increase military cooperation.

COAS thanked Chinese them for sending PLA Army contingent for participation in Pakistan Day Parade. He also visited PLA Army Headquarters where he was presented guard of honour.