RAWALPINDI: The leader of the Chinese military goodwill delegation, Mr. Chang Tsai-chien, said here tonight [Jan 6] that the profound and traditional friendship between China and Pakistan had stood the test in the “stones of struggle and will continue to stand any test”. He was replying to the speech of Gen. Tikka Khan, Chief of Staff of Pakistan Army, at a banquet held by Pakistan Army Chief, in honour of the Chinese delegation. …

Gen. Tikka Khan … said that the Armed Forces will not allow any country to interfere in Pakistan’s internal affairs. Mr. Chang Tsai-chien, who is deputy Chief of General Staff of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army, said the Sino-Pakistan friendship “is not only in conformity with the fundamental interests of our two peoples, but also conducive to the cause of unity against imperialism by the people of Asian countries.” Describing Pakistan as a “great country”, he said the people of Pakistan had a “glorious tradition of opposing imperialism and expansionism.”

“The Government and Armed Forces of Pakistan, under the leadership of Prime Minister Bhutto … have waged unremitting struggles to safeguard national independence and state sovereignty,” he added.

Published in Dawn, January 7th, 2024