Islamabad, 9 September 2022 (TDI): The Ambassador of China to Pakistan, Nong Rong paid a courtesy call to Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal, Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu on Friday.
Pakistan and China has vowed to further consolidate cooperation in fields of emerging technologies and military industry@DGPR_PAF https://t.co/LfsdBWWQ9L pic.twitter.com/3EMlmJExsA
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) September 9, 2022
During their meeting, both sides discussed a number of issues of regional and international dynamics. Moreover, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Pakistan also highlighted regional developments in South Asia.
On the occasion, the Air Chief Marshal highlighted the broad contours of PAF’s modernization drive. These modernization capabilities help achieve operational capability in contemporary warfare in the air, space, and cyberspace domains.
Furthermore, the Air Chief also highlighted the strategic partnership between both countries and expressed his hope to further enhance these ties.
The Chief of Air staff added that Pakistan values its strong diplomatic, economic, and defense relationship with China which is based on convergence on all important issues relating to regional peace, security, and stability.
He also emphasized enhancing military-to-military ties between both countries. He also expressed his hope to tighten ties in training domains between Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF).
Correspondingly, Ambassador Nong praised the professionalism of PAF personnel and the exceptional progress made by PAF over the years. Moreover, he appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in promoting regional peace.
Furthermore, both sides vowed to further consolidate cooperation in fields like emerging technologies and mutual cooperation in the military industry.
Discussion on floods in Pakistan:
During the meeting, the Chinese Ambassador offered heartfelt condolences to the people of Pakistan over the loss of life and devastation caused by floods in Pakistan. He highlighted that China stands with Pakistan during these times and will continue to help them in the future too.
Due to heavy monsoon rains, many areas of Pakistan are submerged in water. More than 1,200 people, including around 400 children, have lost their lives due to floods.
Additionally, the infrastructure around the flood-stricken area is badly destroyed which has rendered many people homeless.
Accordingly, China has donated 400 RMB worth of relief material to Pakistan. China has sent several batches of urgently-needed supplies to Pakistan successively. Earlier this month, the latest batch of China’s aid for Pakistani flood victims consisting of 3,000 tents reached Pakistan’s southern port city of Karachi.
Moreover, the country has vowed to further help Pakistan when needed.
Also Read: China provides additional disaster relief to Pakistan
China Pakistan Relations:
Pakistan and China have enjoyed close and friendly relations since May 1951. Pakistan was one of the first countries that recognized the People’s Republic of China. Over the years, the relationship has blossomed into an “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership”.
The bilateral relationship between the two neighboring countries is characterized by feelings of mutual trust, respect, and goodwill toward each other. Both countries enjoy partnerships in a number of domains like education, trade, culture, and environment.
Economically, China is also Pakistan’s largest trading partner. In 2018, bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$ 18 billion.
Furthermore, the bilateral relationship has elevated to a higher level with the official launch of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). CPEC helps in enhancing connectivity and improving infrastructure between both countries.
