Pak Army to continue playing positive role for regional security: COAS

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa arrived in China for three days official visit. The visit includes his interactions with Chinese’ senior political and military leadership, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement said on Thursday.

COAS held meetings at Beijing with Mr. 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).

ISPR said that matters related to regional security, economy, defence cooperation and mutual interest were discussed.

“The Chinese leadership expressed complete understanding of the geopolitical and economic cum security environment of the region and its implications for both the countries. They acknowledged 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 (AQ), Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and ETIM from Pakistan”, the statement reads.

According to ISPR, Chinese leadership expressed their concern on Afghan security situation and growing potential threat of Daesh/ East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) in Afghanistan. The Chinese leadership expressed their confidence in security arrangements for China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and satisfaction on progress of the project.

COAS thanked 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 Pakistan Army shall continue to positively contribute towards regional stability and security.

COAS thanked Chinese leadership for sending PLA Army contingent for participation in Pakistan Day Parade. Both sides agreed to continue and further increase their military-to-military cooperation.

Earlier, on arrival at PLA Army Headquarters, COAS was presented guard of honour.