ISLAMABAD, Oct 16: President Gen Pervez Musharraf conferred Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) on People’s Liberation Army (Air Force) Commander Gen Qiao Qingchen for his “overwhelming service to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and China”, a press release issued here on Monday said.

The Chinese air force commander, who is on a four-day visit to Pakistan, was conferred upon the award at a ceremony held at the president’s camp office in Rawalpindi.

Earlier, Gen Qingchen held meeting with Gen Musharraf. The two leaders discussed host of issues of bilateral interest, besides extending cooperation to promote and strengthen relations between the two countries.

President Musharraf said that both the countries share cordial and friendly relations.

The president further lauded China’s cooperation in the joint production of JF-17 Thunder aircraft, underlining that it will strengthen PAF.—Our Reporter