ISLAMABAD (September 28 2008): Pakistan and China will further strengthen defence co-operation as both countries are enjoying time-tested and all weather friendship. There was complete unanimity of views between China and Pakistan on matters of strategic and professional interest during the five-day official visit of Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani to China.
During his stay, General Kayani called on top military and political leadership of China. He held official and bilateral talks with General Guo Boxing, vice-chairman, Central Military Commission (CMC) and PLA Deputy Chief of General Staff (DCGS) General Zhefengi.
This was General Kayani's first official visit abroad and signifies the strong, time-tested and all weather relationship between China and Pakistan. In his meeting with Pakistani Chief of Army Staff Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, General Guo Boxing appreciated the fruitful co-operation between both sides over the years.
Noting the two countries as good neighbours, good friends and good partners, General Guo said both sides had carried out remarkable co-operation in politics, economics, military, culture and technology, and made positive contribution to regional and world peace, stability, and development.
China highly values its all-round strategic co-operative partnership with Pakistan, General Guo said, vowing to join hands with the country to boost bilateral ties to a new level. In response, General Kayani said his country treasures its traditional friendship with China and is ready to further boost co-operation with its close neighbour.
General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani also called on Dai Bingguo, State Counselor. The dignitaries exchanged views on matters of mutual interest and expressed their full satisfaction at the unique strategic relationship between Pakistan and China.
The COAS expressed his gratitude to the Chinese government and the people for the exemplary support extended to Pakistan at all times. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining and reinforcing this relationship for peace and security in the region.
General Kayani also visited the Ministry of National Defence, where he was briefed about Exercise "Warrior 2008." General Kayani was also given detailed briefing on the organisation/role of People's Liberation Army and the defensive policy of China. The COAS also witnessed Exercise "Warrior 2008" at Zhurihe. The COAS during his meeting with Chinese Defence Minister Liang Guanglie said that Pakistan is ready to work with China on enhancing bilateral strategic co-operation under the new circumstances.