China urges Pakistani military to keep up ‘zero tolerance’ crackdown on terror as Chinese interests targeted
- Foreign Minister Qin Gang reiterates call as he meets Sahir Shamshad Mirza, chair of the Pakistan Army’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee
- Chinese interests in Pakistan, a key belt and road partner in the region, have faced increased terror threats as Beijing’s influence grows
“We thank the Pakistani army for its long-standing efforts to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel in Pakistan,” Qin told General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, chairman of the Pakistan Army’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, as the pair met in Beijing on Tuesday.
“We hope that the Pakistani side will not relent in its efforts to combat terrorism with zero tolerance,” he added.
Qin also highlighted the importance of the Pakistani military in bilateral relations.
“The Pakistani army is the mainstay of Pakistan, as well as a staunch defender and promoter of China-Pakistan friendship,” Qin said, describing the country as an “ironclad friend of China”.
“[We] hope the Pakistani military will continue to play its role as the anchor of stability by safeguarding domestic stability and offering new and more contributions to our strategic partnership.”
