BEIJING, Jan 15: China and Pakistan renewed their commitment on Tuesday to continue cooperation in the defence sector.
The top-ranking military officials of the two countries at their formal talks held here discussed ways and means to further strengthen their cooperation.
Pakistan’s side was led by Gen Muhammad Aziz, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), while Gen Fu Quanyou, Chief of General Staff, represented the Chinese side.
Defence sources told APP that the talks were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere and both the sides resolved to continue the existing bilateral cooperation in the defence field.
General Aziz briefed the Chinese Military Commander about latest developments in the region and the steps being taken by President Pervez Musharraf in defusing the tension between India and Pakistan and bringing a lasting peace to the South Asia.
Gen Fue lauded Pakistan’s firm position taken against terrorism and the efforts being made for bringing peace and stability to the region. In this connection, he particularly mentioned the measures announced by Gen Pervez Musharraf in his address to the nation.
President Musharraf’s address, he said, reflected Pakistan’s strong commitment to eradicate terrorism and resolve its disputes with India through dialogue and peaceful means. Pakistan, he said, had been effectively handling the situation developed in the aftermath of Sept 11 attack on the US landmarks.
Gen Fu said: “China attaches great importance to its cooperation with Pakistan and considers Pakistan a time-tested and all-weather friend.” He noted that this friendship was growing with the passage of time.
He said Pakistan-China cooperation in the defence sector contributed a lot to ensuring peace and stability.
The CJCSC appreciated Chinese assistance in the defence sector and said his country cherished this cooperation for their mutual benefit.
He thanked the Chinese military leadership for extending warm reception to him and the members of his delegation.
During the talks, Gen Aziz was assisted by the members of his delegation, Riaz H. Khokar, Pakistan Ambassador to China, and the Beijing-based Pakistan attache of the three services. Gen Fu was assisted by the senior officers of the PLA.
Earlier, on his arrival at the PLA Headquarter, Gen Aziz was presented a formal welcome, including guard of honour, by a contingent of the Chinese armed forces.
Later, Gen Aziz also had a meeting with Zhan Wannian, Vice Chairman, Chinese Central Military Commission, and discussed with him various aspects of the on-going Pakistan-China defence cooperation.
Mr Zhan also appreciated the measures announced by President Pervez Musharraf for de-escalation of tension in the region and rooting out extremism.
He hoped these measures would further strengthen Pakistan’s position in the region and resolve its differences with India. He held out an assurance that China would continue to extend its support to Pakistan in the defence field.
Gen Aziz is likely to meet Chinese President Jiang Zemin during his stay in Beijing besides meeting other top-level civil and military officials.—APP