Terming Pakistan an important state of the region, China on Friday called for respecting the country’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. A joint statement issued simultaneously from Islamabad and Beijing at the end of Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani’s four-day visit, said, “China believes that Pakistan’s efforts for promoting peace and stability in South Asia needs to be recognised and supported.”
The two countries noted that terrorism, separatism and extremism were posing serious threats to regional peace, stability and security and called for substantive cooperation. Both sides agreed to jointly fight these bilateral and multilateral frameworks. “The Chinese side recognised the tremendous efforts and the great sacrifice that Pakistan has made in fighting terrorism and reiterated its respect and support for the efforts of Pakistan to advance its counter-terrorism strategy and safeguard its security,” the joint statement said.
Pakistan reiterated that it would never allow its territory to be used to attack any country and would continue to support international counter-terrorism cooperation. The statement was based on Prime Minister Gilani’s formal meetings with the Chinese leadership, including President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao, National Committee of the CPPCC Chairman Jia Qinlin and State Councillor Liu Yandong. During the meetings the two leaders reached a broad agreement on continuing to work to promote Pakistan-China strategic partnership of cooperation.
Both the countries agreed to strengthen communication and coordination in regional affairs, particularly on issues such as Afghanistan. The two sides noted that against the background of a complex and ever-changing international and regional situation, consolidating and deepening China-Pakistan all weather strategic partnership of cooperation was of utmost significance. Islamabad also reiterated its firm commitment to the one-China policy and extended support for the cause of China’s unification.
Both Pakistan and China agreed to enhance cooperation in infrastructure development and energy and agriculture on a priority basis in line with the decisions taken during Premier Wen Jiabao’s visit to Pakistan. The two leaders also noted the recent progress in mutually beneficial cooperation in the financial and banking sectors. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Ahmad Mukhtar said Pakistan hoped to take delivery of 50 JF-17 fighter jets manufactured jointly with China within the next six months. “We think there is a good deal,” Mukhtar told reporters.
China reaffirms support to Pakistan
