General Li Qiaoming, PLA Ground Forces Commander of China called on Minister for Defence & Defence Producton, Khawaja Mohammad Asif here in his Office Islamabad today. Minister for Defence welcomed the dignitary and stated that friendship with China is a corner-stone of Pakistan’s Foreign Policy based on convergence of views on regional and global issues. The Minister appreciated long history of Pak-China relations in all fields. He said these relations are focused on welfare of people of both countries and are not against any other country. He added that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with China. The Minister appreciated existing bilateral mechanisms, like Strategic Dialogue, Consular Consultations and Counter Terrorism Consultations. He mentioned that the strategic relations between the two neighbouring nations are based on mutual trust. He pointed out that Pakistan deeply appreciates China’s diplomatic and material support in its fight against terrorism at regional and international fora. Khawaja Muhammad Asif expressed that Pakistan-China Security Cooperation is pillar of regional stability. Cooperation in security/intelligence sharing has increased amidst growing threats/advent of CPEC. He reiterated that Pakistan is committed to stability and peace in the region with particular focus on its relations with Afghanistan. A peaceful Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan and to the whole region. The visiting dignitary commended Pakistan’s efforts in fostering regional peace and stability, as well as Pakistan Armed Forces’ role in combating terrorism. Both sides acknowledged the strong relationship between their Armed Forces and committed to further expand defense collaboration.
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