ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir on Friday described the country’s strategic partnership with China as “pivotal” for regional peace and stability, as he highlighted the strength of bilateral ties that have endured despite shifting global geopolitics.

The army chief was speaking at an event held at Pakistan’s military headquarters in Rawalpindi to mark the 98th founding anniversary of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). The ceremony was also attended by Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, PLA Defense Attaché Major General Wang Zhong and senior military officials from both countries.

Munir’s statement comes weeks after India’s Deputy Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Rahul Singh, claimed China had provided Pakistan with “live inputs” during a brief but intense four-day military conflict with India in May. Pakistan’s Defense Minister

Khawaja Asif, however, told Arab News prior to that that the outcome of the conflict was a “victory” that was entirely “Made in Pakistan.”

“The Field Marshal highlighted that the Pakistan-China strategic relationship exemplifies mutual trust, unwavering support and shared commitment,” the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations, said in a statement circulated after the event. “He stressed that despite shifting strategic dynamics, the friendship between the two nations has remained steadfast and unshakable.”