Gen Raheel meets Chinese prime minister

BEIJING: Chief of the Army Staff General Raheel Sharif called on Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Monday to enhance bilateral economic and security ties, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Chinese premier said military-to-military relations have reinforced China-Pakistan ties, especially economic cooperation,  calling on both the sides to strengthen high-level contact and deepen exchanges in various fields.

"Economic cooperation and security collaboration between the two should be pushed forward "like two wheels,"  he was quoted as having said.

The Chinese leader expressed hope that China and Pakistan would increase communication and coordination on global and regional issues to safeguard peace and promote common development and prosperity.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not only a flagship project between the two sides, but also conducive to development and prosperity of the whole region, stressed Li, saying China appreciates the strong support from Pakistan's government and military.

The premier said the two countries will share opportunities and overcome challenges through joint efforts to benefit the two peoples.

General Raheel Sharif told the prime minister that Pakistan army appreciates profound friendship between China and Pakistan.

He said Pakistan expects achievements from the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor and is ready to provide security for cooperation.