Pakistan and China on Thursday reiterated their desire to further expand and consolidate bilateral ties in divergent fields especially in the area of defence.
This was discussed at a meeting between Senior Federal Minister and Minister for Defence, Rao Sikandar Iqbal, and the visiting Admiral Hu Yan Lin, Political Commisar PLA (Navy) China, who called on the minister, at the Defence Ministry in Rawalpindi.
The minister told Admiral Hu Yan Lin that Pakistan attached great importance to its ties with China. He thanked the Chinese government for their continued support in the modernisation plans of Pakistan Armed Forces.
He specially highlighted and praised Chinese assistance for the projects of strategic importance like JF-17 Thunder Aircraft, F-22 Frigates and Al-Khalid Tank. The meeting stressed the need for closer interaction and more collaboration between the Armed Forces of the two countries.
The visiting dignitary told the minister that Pakistan and China were good partners and neighbours and their friendship was higher than Himalayas and deeper than the oceans. He said China would continue to assist Pakistan to strengthen its defence.
Admiral Hu Yan Lin also apprised the Minister about his fruitful discussion with senior Military leaders of Pakistan. The Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Luo Zhaohui, also attended the meeting.