COAS meets senior civil, military leaders in China

Chinese leadership expresses concern on growing threat of Daesh, ETIM in Afghanistan

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa arrived in China for a three-day official visit on Thursday. According to the ISPR, the visit includes the army chief’s interactions with senior Chinese political and military leadership. The COAS held meetings in Beijing with Zhang Gaoli, Executive Vice Premier, General Fan Changlong, Vice Chairman Central Military Commission, General Fang Funghui, Chief of Joint Services Department, and General Li Zuocheng, Commander People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Matters related to regional security, economy, defence cooperation and mutual interest were discussed during the meetings.

The Chinese leadership expressed complete understanding of the geo-political and economic cum security environment of the region and its implications for both the countries. They acknowledged the positive role being played by Pakistan towards peace and stability in the region with special mention of Pakistan’s role in eliminating terrorist groups including al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) from Pakistan. The Chinese leadership expressed concern on Afghanistan’s security situation and growing potential threat of Daesh and ETIM in Afghanistan. The Chinese leadership expressed confidence in security arrangements for China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and satisfaction on progress of the project.

General Bajwa thanked the Chinese leadership for their defence support and cooperation which is source of strength for unique all-weather friendship between the two countries and their people. He reiterated that the Pakistan Army shall continue to positively contribute towards regional stability and security. The COAS also thanked the Chinese leadership for sending PLA Army contingent for participation in the Pakistan Day Parade.

Both sides agreed to continue and further increase their military-to-military cooperation. Earlier on arrival at the PLA Army Headquarters, the COAS was presented guard of honour.