Army Chief Raheel Sharif meets Chinese counterpart to discuss defense cooperation

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif on Monday has reached Beijing on a two-day official visit, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported.

The Army Chief was presented guard of honour upon his arrival.

According to the ISPR, COAS Sharif held a meeting with Chinese counterpart and congratulated him for assuming command of second army headquarters.

The meeting discussed the security of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is a USD 46 billion investment in Pakistan by China during Xi Jinping’s tenure as the premier.

The two military leaders further discussed sharing of intelligence between the two neighbours to help curb terrorism. General Raheel Sharif also discussed enhanced cooperation in technology, defence and other sectors.

Earlier in March the Army Chief called on Tajikistan President Emomali Rakhmonov during his one-day visit. President Rakhmonov said that Pakistan Army’s efforts in the war on terror are commendable. He recognised the success of Operation Zarb-e-Azb against banned outfits.

COAS Sharif is hailed as the most popular Pakistani military chief after he launched a successful offensive against terrorists in tribal areas of the country. Operation Zarb-e-Azb garnered much praise from the international community as it added to Pakistan’s efforts and sacrifices in the war on terror in a major way.