US thaw won't eclipse China ties: FO

Pakistan will continue to pursue strategic partnership with China, dismissing the perception that its close ties with the United States may come at the expense of Beijing.

Two statements on Friday — one from the Foreign Office and the other from the ISPR — delivered a clear message that Pakistan's relationship with China was "unique" and both sides would support each other irrespective of the shifting strategic dynamics.

Since the unprecedented reset in the relationship between Pakistan and the US, there have been murmurs and skeptics who fear that Washington's closeness might persuade Islamabad to maintain distance from China.

"I will not agree with this perception" Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan replied emphatically. "China is a very close friend and iron brother. We enjoy a strategic partnership spread over decades. It's a unique relationship between two friendly neighboring countries and has nothing to do with what kind of relations we pursue with other countries."

"Pakistan-China relations are based on the principles of international law and UN Charter. Our relations remain robust and two sides are working to sustain the positive momentum," he added.

Earlier, ISPR said a ceremony was held at the GHQ to commemorate the 98th founding anniversary of People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong was the chief guest while in attendance were Major General Wang Zhong, Defence Attaché, officials from the Chinese Embassy, and senior military officers from the tri-services of Pakistan.

Field Marshal Gen Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, extended a warm welcome to the Chinese guests and congratulated the PLA on its 98th founding anniversary. He lauded the PLA's pivotal role in China's defence, security, and nation-building.

The COAS underscored the strength and strategic significance of Pakistan-China relations, emphasizing that the bond between the two nations is unique, time-tested, and exceptionally resilient amid evolving regional and global challenges.

The Field Marshal highlighted that the Pakistan-China strategic relationship exemplifies mutual trust, unwavering support, and shared commitment. He stressed that despite shifting strategic dynamics, the friendship between the two nations has remained steadfast and unshakable.

Concluding his address, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir reaffirmed that the Pakistan Army and the PLA are true brothers-in-arms. He emphasized that their enduring partnership will continue to play a pivotal role in promoting regional stability and safeguarding shared strategic interests.

Addressing the gathering, the Chinese Ambassador expressed his sincere gratitude to the COAS for hosting the event commemorating the PLA's 98th anniversary. He acknowledged the steadfast role of Pakistan's armed forces in the fight against terrorism and reaffirmed China's unwavering support for and commitment to its strategic partnership with Pakistan.