BEIJING: China and Pakistan will deepen security and defense cooperation and work to crack down on terrorism, Chinese state agency Xinhua reported on Thursday, citing a joint action plan agreed by the two countries.
The plan came as Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited China and held meetings with Chinese leaders including President Xi Jinping in Beijing.
According to Xinhua, the two countries will enhance security investment and coordination as part of the joint action plan.
On Tuesday, Xi had reiterated his country’s complete support to fight terrorism as Shehbaz appreciated Beijing’s unflinching support for Pakistan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and socioeconomic development.
A readout from Chinese state news agency Xinhua read while quoting Xi as saying, “China supports Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.”
Xi also hoped that Islamabad would take effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese personnel, projects, and institutions in Pakistan, creating a secure environment for bilateral cooperation.
At the same time, he said China supports Pakistan in maintaining unity, focusing on development, and enhancing national strength.
“China is ready to work with Pakistan to build the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor 2.0,” he added
It’s a developing story. Details to follow.