ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir on Friday described the country’s strategic partnership with China as “pivotal” for regional peace and stability, as he highlighted the strength of bilateral ties that have endured despite shifting global geopolitics.
The army chief was speaking at an event held at Pakistan’s military headquarters in Rawalpindi to mark the 98th founding anniversary of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The ceremony was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, PLA Defense Attaché Major General Wang Zhong and senior military officials from both countries.
Munir’s statement comes weeks after India’s Deputy Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Rahul Singh, claimed China had provided Pakistan with “live inputs” during a brief but intense four-day military conflict with India in May. Pakistan’s Defense Minister
Khawaja Asif, however, told Arab News prior to that that the outcome of the conflict was a “victory” that was entirely “Made in Pakistan.”
“The Field Marshal highlighted that the Pakistan-China strategic relationship exemplifies mutual trust, unwavering support and shared commitment,” the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, said in a statement circulated after the event. “He stressed that despite shifting strategic dynamics, the friendship between the two nations has remained steadfast and unshakable.”
“He [also] emphasized that their enduring partnership will continue to play a pivotal role in promoting regional stability and safeguarding shared strategic interests,” the statement added.
The army chief also praised the PLA for its role in China’s defense, security and nation-building.
He described Pakistan and China as “true brothers-in-arms” whose bond remains “unique, time-tested and exceptionally resilient.”
The Chinese ambassador thanked the Pakistan Army for hosting the ceremony and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to the strategic partnership.
He also acknowledged Pakistan’s armed forces for their role in counterterrorism.
Pakistan and China are long-standing allies and partners in the multibillion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The corridor provides China with direct access to the Arabian Sea via Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, while enabling Pakistan to modernize infrastructure and expand regional trade links.
