RAWALPINDI: Mr Cheng San-sheng, leader of China’s People’s Liberation Army goodwill delegation, said here tonight [Feb 17] that China would always resolutely support the Pakistani people and their Armed Forces in their just struggle. Mr Cheng was replying to the address by Gen. Tikka Khan, Chief of the Army Staff, who hosted a dinner here in honour of the delegation. Welcoming the delegation, Gen. Tikka said that the friendly relations between China and Pakistan have not only endured the test of time but have also turned into a deep understanding and sincere co-operation. … “You are our tested and true friend,” he said… .

… Mr. Cheng said: “The friendly relations of co-operation between us are not only in accord with the fundamental interests of our two peoples but they also benefit various people of the Third World.” Referring to the people and the Armed Forces of Pakistan, Mr. Cheng San-sheng termed them as industrious and valiant and said that they have fought heroically in the struggle to oppose foreign aggression and interference. He said that the Armed Forces of Pakistan are rich with experience of practical war and their professional training is efficient.

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2026