RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa met ChinesePresident Xi Jinping in Beijing.

It was a special invitation and both discussed regional securityenvironment, challenges and way forward.

Chinese President said that Pakistan is our time tested iron friend andPakistan Army has a pivotal role towards this lasting relationship,statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations reads.

He appreciated professionalism of Pakistan Armed Forces and acknowledgedits role towards regional peace and stability.

He said, “China shall continue to support Pakistan as a strategic partner.”President said that those who oppose Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) or CPECshall never succeed as this is an initiative of peace and development notonly for China but for region and beyond.

The Army Chief thanked President for his invitation. He also thankedPresident for acknowledging professionalism and contributions of Pak Armytowards regional peace and stability.

Gen. BAjwa said that Pakistan understands the importance of peace and hasgiven lot of sacrifices for achieving it.

He said that BRI with CPEC as its flagship is destined to succeed despiteall odds and Pak Army shall ensure security of CPEC at all costs.