RAWALPINDI, Pakistan: The Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission of the People’s Republic of China General Fan Changlong has said that China values the efforts of Pakistan Army in fighting East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), an Islamist militant group operating in northwest China’s Xinjiang province.
“China values the efforts of Pakistan Army in fighting ETIM,” General Fan Changlong said in a meeting with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif at the army general headquarters in Rawalpindi on Thursday.
General Fan Changlong was accompanied by a high level Chinese Military delegation which arrived in Islamabad earlier in the day.
In a press release, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that this is the first visit of Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission of China after a lapse of 11 years.
The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, regional security, steps for regional stability and enhanced bilateral defence collaboration during the meeting.
On the occasion, the COAS said that Pakistan–China relations are all weather and based on mutual trust and cooperation. He said that this relationship has survived the test of times and is only bound to grow.
In his remarks, General Fan Changlong highlighted Pak–China defence and security cooperation, and said “China and Pakistan are the best iron brothers, good friends and strategic partners. We share the tradition of mutual understanding, mutual trust and mutual support.
China deeply appreciates the determination of Pakistan Army in counter terrorism and the successful operation in various fields. China values the efforts of Pakistan Army in fighting ETIM.”
Talking about the Chine Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), General Fan Changlong said that the project is equally beneficial to both China and Pakistan. He said that both countries are committed to its continuous process and future success. He said that efforts of Pakistan Army in safeguarding CPEC security are highly appreciated.
“We look forward to close cooperation with Pakistan side to ensure proper management and security of CPEC,” he said.
The Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission of China particularly expressed his appreciation of the role played by General Raheel Sharif in realizing CPEC and strengthening relationship between China and Pakistan.
Earlier on arrival at General Headquarters a smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Army presented Guard of Honour to visiting dignitary, who laid floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhuda and paid rich tribute to Shuhada of Pakistan.
