Chinese general calls on PM Imran, reaffirms full support at 'crucial juncture'

Premier highlights India’s unilateral action in IOK, ongoing clampdown in the occupied valley

ISLAMABAD: Vice Chairman of China's Central Military Commission (CMC) General Xu Qiliang called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad on Tuesday and reaffirmed Beijing’s full support to Pakistan at the “crucial juncture.”

“Chinese General Xu Qiliang conveyed cordial greetings of President Xi Jinping, as well as that of Premier Li Keqiang, and reaffirmation of China’s full support to Pakistan, particularly at this crucial juncture,” a statement issued by the PM Office said on Tuesday.

Gen. Xu Qiliang, Vice Chairman of Central Military Commission (CMC) China, called on Prime Minister Imran Khan at PM Office today. pic.twitter.com/N0zgUzxaaP

— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) August 27, 2019

General Xu's visit to Pakistan comes in the aftermath of India revoking Article 370 of the constitution that gave IOK a substantial degree of autonomy. On Monday he called on army chief General Qamar Bajwa at the GHQ in Rawalpindi.

During the meeting, PM Imran highlighted India’s unilateral actions of revoking occupied Kashmir's special status, and the continuing lockdown for over three weeks in the held valley.

He discussed the dire human rights and the humanitarian situation in IOK, as well as the threat to peace and security posed by India’s actions.

“The prime minister underlined that India could stage a false-flag operation to divert the world’s attention from its crimes,” the statement added.

The prime minister, the communique said, thanked China for supporting Pakistan’s approach to the UNSC, and reiterated that curfew in IOK must be immediately lifted, and international NGOs be allowed to visit the area to have an objective assessment of the humanitarian tragedy unfolding there.

PM Imran underscored that the brutal suppression of human rights in the disputed territory had the potential to spark a wave of extremism and India’s reckless actions could destabilize the region immeasurably.

The Chinese general, meanwhile, reiterated Beijing’s resolve to work for further strengthening Sino-Pak ties in a range of areas.

"Vice Chairman Xu underlined that the South Asia region needed stability and economic development and resolution of outstanding disputes, and appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in advancing those goals," read the statement.

It was agreed that Pakistan and China would continue to closely consult and coordinate for the promotion of peace and stability in the region and maintenance of strategic balance.