Defense Minister Cao Gangchuan said on Wednesday the Chinese
armed forces are ready to further deepen cooperation with
Pakistan.
Cao, also vice chairman of the Central Military Commission and
state councilor, made the remarks during a meeting with Pakistan
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Afzal Tahir.
Cao said the friendship between the two governments, the two
peoples and the two armed forces have always developed steadily
despite the great changes in the international situation.
He noted that this year marks the 55th anniversary of the
establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan.
Cao said China is ready to make joint efforts with Pakistan to
promote bilateral cooperation in various fields and further develop
ties between the two militaries in a bid to safeguard world peace
and stability and promote common development.
Tahir said the Pakistan government, people and armed forces have
always cherished friendship with the Chinese government, people and
armed forces.
He said Pakistan will try its best to consolidate and develop
relations with China.
Hu Yanlin, political commissar of Navy of the Chinese People's
Liberation Army, was present at the meeting.
(Xinhua News Agency May 18, 2006)
