On May 23, 2013, Premier Li Keqiang of the State Council met with Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Khalid Shameem Wynne, Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Chief of Naval Staff Muhammad Asif Sandila, Chief of Air Staff Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt and other Pakistani military leaders in Islamabad.
Li Keqiang expressed that, China and Pakistan enjoy an unbreakable friendship. It comes from the efforts of generations of national leaders of both countries and the heartfelt support of the two peoples, and also from the in-depth development of military-to-military relations. The Pakistani military is not only an important force in safeguarding security and stability in Pakistan, but also a firm supporter of China-Pakistan friendship. You have done your best providing precious help for protecting the safety of Chinese institutions based in Pakistan and their staff. The Chinese side extends appreciation and gratitude for this. I paid this visit as scheduled despite the unstable factors coming out in the security situation of the region. It indicates that the Chinese government unswervingly adheres to the policy of friendship to Pakistan and supports Pakistan to realize stability and better development.
Li Keqiang noted that Pakistan has made painstaking efforts and great sacrifice for combating terrorism. China supports Pakistan in working out counter-terrorism strategies based on its own national conditions. The international community should help Pakistan overcome difficulties and cope with challenges under the premise of respecting its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Li Keqiang stressed, as a good neighbour, a good friend and a good partner, China pays close attention to the development of situation in Pakistan, respects the development path the Pakistani people chose in line wtih their national conditions, supports that all parties concerned in Pakistan, from the fundamental interests of the nation, to join their efforts to safeguard political stability, economic development and improvement of people's livelihood, and is willing to provide assistance within its ability to Pakistan. We expect that the Pakistani military will continue to play a positive role in safeguarding national sovereignty and independence and in promoting political stability. The Chinese side is ready to deepen military-to-military relations with Pakistan, to enhance communication in defense and to explore new fields for cooperation.
The Pakistani military leaders warmly welcomed Li Keqiang for his visit. They said that the visit fully demonstrates the special relations of friendship between Pakistan and China. The Pakistani military is proud to have China as its best friend, and will never forget the firm support and unselfish help of China. It is a divine duty of the Pakistani military to safeguard and protect the safety of Chinese institutions and their staff in Pakistan. The Pakistani military is willing to strengthen communication and to expand cooperation with China, to join the efforts with China in combating terrorism and safeguarding regional peace and stability, so as to push for greater development in Pakistan-China relations.