BEIJING, July 16: The second round of defence and security talks between Pakistan Military delegation led by Vice Chief of Army Staff General Muhammad Yusaf Khan and People’s Liberation Army of China was held here.

The Pakistan team includes top officers from all the services.

The Chinese side was represented by General Xiong Guangkai, Deputy Chief of General Staff, PLA.

Official sources told APP here on Wednesday that the two sides exchanged views about contemporary regional and international issues, besides discussing military matters of mutual interest.

The talks also focused on various strategic issues especially those concerning the region. There was unanimity of views on most issues. Measures were also discussed to broaden the spectrum of the existing strategic relationship.

Some important discussions were also held on the matters relating to training and other dimensions of military cooperation.

According to the sources, the Chinese military leadership reaffirmed its commitment to the special relations with Pakistan, which were all-enduring and had stood the test of time for half a century.

The strong bond of the friendship was attributed by the Chinese military leaders to the wishes and aspirations of the people of the two countries.

Both sides agreed that this strategic relationship and military cooperation between the two countries has been a fundamental factor in ensuring peace and stability in South Asia.

The Chinese leaders reassured the Pakistan delegation that regardless of the turbulence and uncertainty marking the regional and international environment, the nature and intensity of Pak-China friendship remain unaffected.

General Yusaf also held discussions with the Minister of Defence and Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission General Cao Guangchun and the Chief of General Staff of PLA General Liang Guanglie and Director General of Armament Department General Li Jinai.

Chinese Defence Minister reiterated that China considered Pakistan as its most trusted and reliable friend. The PLA leaders commended Pakistan’s role in the global war against terrorism. They were equally appreciative of Pakistan’s endeavours towards promoting stability and peace in the region.

Meanwhile, the Chinese State News Agency, XINHUA reports that Chinese Defence Minister Cao Gangchuan met Muhammad Yusaf Khan, Vice Chief of the Army Staff.

Mr Cao, who is also Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councillor, said China and Pakistan were friendly neighbours and the friendship between the two countries had withstood the test of time no matter what happened in the international and domestic situation of the two countries.

China always regarded Pakistan as a reliable friend, he said, adding that military relations between the two sides were an important component of the bilateral ties.

Mr Cao also briefed the guests on army modernization in China.—APP