BEIJING: Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday met the senior Chinese political and military leadership and discussed with them matters related to regional security, economy, defence cooperation and mutual interest.

The COAS, who arrived here on a three-day official visit, held meetings with Executive Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli, Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission Gen Fan Changlong, Chief of Joint Services Department Gen Fang Funghui and Commander of Peoples Liberation Army Gen Li Zuocheng.

The Chinese leadership expressed complete understanding of the geopolitical and economic-cum-security environment of the region and its implications for the two countries, according to ISPR director general Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor.

Bajwa in Beijing, holds talks with Chinese leaders

They acknowledged the positive role being played by Pakistan towards peace and stability in the region, particularly its role in eliminating terrorist groups from Pakistan, including Al Qaeda, Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan and East Turkestan Islamic Movement.

The Chinese leaders expressed their confidence in security arrangements made for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and satisfaction on the progress of the project.

Gen Bajwa thanked the Chinese leaders for their support and cooperation in defence field, which is a source of strength for the unique all-weather friendship between the two countries.

Earlier, on arrival at the PLA’s headquarters, the COAS was presented a guard of honour.

Published in Dawn, March 17th, 2017