ISLAMABAD, July 5: Pakistan and China on Thursday expressed their desire to further expand and consolidate bilateral ties in diverse fields especially in the area of defence.

This was discussed at a meeting between Defence Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal and the visiting Chinese Admiral Hu Yan Lin, political commisar PLA (Navy) China, at the defence ministry.

The minister told Admiral Yan Lin that Pakistan attached great importance to its ties with China, a press release issued here said.

He thanked the Chinese government for its continued support in the modernisation plans of Pakistan’s armed forces.

He highlighted and praised Chinese assistance for strategic projects like JF-17 thunder aircraft, F-22 frigates and Al-Khalid tank.

The meeting stressed the need for closer interaction and more collaboration between the armed forces of the two countries.

Admiral Yan Lin told the minister that Pakistan and China were good partners and neighbours.