Foreign and Military Affairs

Wen calls for closer military exchanges with Pakistan

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-12-19 11:27

ISLAMABAD - Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Saturday called for enhanced military exchanges and cooperation between China and Pakistan so as to cement the bilateral strategic partnership of cooperation.

Wen made the remarks while meeting with senior Pakistani military leaders, including Khalid Shameem Wynne, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Ashfaq Pervez Kiyani, chief of the Army Staff, Noman Bashir, chief of the Naval Staff, and Rao Qamar Suleman, chief of the Air Staff.

The Pakistani military is a steadfast supporter and vindicator of the China-Pakistan friendship, and has played an important role in consolidating and developing their strategic partnership of cooperation, Wen said.

He applauded the close exchanges between the two militaries in the areas of anti-terrorism and disaster relief, and hoped to further enhance the military links to contribute to the development of bilateral ties.

Calling China an all-weather strategic partner of Pakistan, the Pakistani military leaders said bilateral friendship had withstood severe challenges. The Pakistani military was ready to work jointly with China to play a positive role in developing their strategic partnership of cooperation, they added.

The Chinese premier arrived here Friday for a three-day visit.