BEIJING: China’s Defense Minister, Li Shangfu, emphasized the importance of expanding military cooperation between China and Pakistan during a meeting with Pakistan’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi, in Beijing on Monday.
The two countries aim to bolster their capabilities in safeguarding regional security and are seeking to explore new areas of collaboration.
Li Shangfu highlighted the key role of the military relationship between China and Pakistan in their bilateral ties. He urged both nations to expand into new fields of exchanges and cooperation to enhance their ability to address various risks and challenges.
The defense minister emphasized the shared responsibility of the two countries in protecting their security interests and maintaining regional stability, as reported by China’s Ministry of National Defense.
The visit of Admiral Niazi follows a recent statement by Vice Chairman of China’s Central Military Commission, General Zhang Youxia, who expressed China’s willingness to foster a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future.
Practical cooperation between Pakistan and China
General Zhang emphasized the need to deepen and expand practical cooperation between the two militaries and to elevate their mil-to-mil relationship to a higher level.
During his visit to Pakistan, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang also underscored the significance of the longstanding strategic relationship between China and Pakistan. He commended Pakistan’s efforts in maintaining regional peace and stability and expressed satisfaction with the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reaffirming China’s commitment to its timely completion.
Qin Gang further acknowledged Pakistan’s support in ensuring the security of Chinese nationals and projects within the country. The evolving security situation in the region was a topic of discussion during Qin Gang’s meetings with Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir.
The strengthened military cooperation between China and Pakistan signifies a deepening of their strategic partnership. As both nations prioritize their neighborhood diplomacy, China continues to firmly support Pakistan in safeguarding its territorial integrity, sovereignty, development interests, and national dignity.
The exploration of new fields of cooperation between the two militaries will enhance their joint capabilities and contribute to regional peace and stability.
