RAWALPINDI: A boundary protocol between China and Pakistan was signed here today [March 26] by the foreign ministers of the two countries. Marshal Chen Yi and Mr Z. A. Bhutto signed the protocol for their respective governments.

The foreign ministers also signed maps showing the demarcated boundary between the two countries. The maps form an integral part of the boundary protocol.

The brief but impressive signing ceremony was held at the President’s guest house. Delegations of the two countries attended. After signing the protocol, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Mr Z. A. Bhutto, said a line of peace has been established. And this should be an example to others. Marshal Chen Yi called it a great achievement. Pakistan and China had signed a boundary agreement in Peking in 1963 and in two years geographical demarcation was carried out jointly by the two Governments along the difficult terrain of the Karakoram Ranges.

China and Pakistan also signed a cultural agreement. Under the cultural agreement exchange of educationists, scientists, scholars and experts will take place. Both countries will also provide scholarships. The two Governments, encouraged by the spirit of friendship, were desirous of establishing cultural co-operation in accordance with the Bandung spirit. They were convinced that co-operation in the field of culture, art and science would strengthen the friendship between the two peoples. The two parties will encourage and facilitate exchange of visits and performances of their artists and their art troupes.

Published in Dawn, March 27th, 2015

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