ISLAMABAD – Reaffirming the strength of Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu on Wednesday said the friendship between the two countries has remained steadfast through changing regional and global circumstances and continues to expand across defence, economic and cultural fields.
The Air Chief made the remarks while addressing a reception held in Islamabad to commemorate the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The ceremony was hosted by Ambassador of China to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong and Chinese Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong, and was attended by senior military officials, members of the diplomatic corps and distinguished guests.
Extending warm congratulations to the Chinese leadership and the officers and personnel of the People’s Liberation Army, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu said the Pakistan-China relationship is built on mutual trust, shared interests and unwavering support for one another. He noted that the partnership has evolved into one of the strongest bilateral relationships in the region and continues to serve as a model of strategic cooperation.
The Air Chief observed that defence collaboration between the two countries has grown significantly over the years and remains an important pillar of the broader bilateral relationship.
He said the close coordination between Islamabad and Beijing contributes positively to regional peace, stability and collective security while opening new avenues for cooperation in emerging fields.
Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to further deepening ties with China, he expressed confidence that the two countries would continue working closely to enhance their longstanding friendship and expand cooperation for the mutual benefit of their peoples.
Speaking on the occasion, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked the Chief of the Air Staff for attending the event and appreciated Pakistan’s enduring friendship with China. He said the anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army symbolises China’s commitment to safeguarding peace and promoting development while reflecting the deep and resilient partnership enjoyed by China and Pakistan.
Chinese Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong also highlighted the importance of defence cooperation between the two countries and reaffirmed China’s commitment to further strengthening military-to-military relations with Pakistan.
The ceremony concluded with both sides reiterating their shared resolve to further expand bilateral cooperation and reinforce the strategic partnership that has long been regarded as a cornerstone of regional peace, security and shared prosperity.
