Pakistan’s Army Chief Lt Gen Asim Munir has embarked on a three-day visit to China with an aim to strengthen defense and strategic cooperation between the two nations. General Munir’s visit to China comes amid regional tensions and deteriorating relations with neighboring India. This visit is also significant as it takes place after a recent high-level meeting between Chinese and Indian officials, which has led to speculation about Beijing’s stance on the ongoing border dispute between India and China.
Cooperating areas
General Asim Munir visit to China is expected to focus on a range of issues, including defense cooperation, regional security, and economic ties. The two countries share a long-standing friendship and have been strategic partners for decades. In recent years, they have deepened their cooperation in various fields, including defense, infrastructure, and energy.
Security issues
During his visit, General Asim Munir is scheduled to hold meetings with China’s top military leadership, including General Xu Qiliang, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, and General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission. He is also expected to meet with China’s political leadership to discuss regional security issues.
The Pakistan Army Chief’s visit comes amid growing tensions between India and China. In recent months, the two countries have been engaged in a military standoff along their disputed border in Ladakh. The situation has escalated to a point where both sides have deployed large numbers of troops and heavy artillery along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The recent high-level talks between Chinese and Indian officials have raised hopes of a breakthrough in the ongoing border dispute. However, the situation remains tense, and there are concerns about a possible military escalation.
General Asim Munir visit to China is also significant in the context of the evolving regional security situation. Pakistan and China have a shared interest in stabilizing Afghanistan, which is facing an uncertain future following the withdrawal of US and NATO troops. Both countries have been working closely to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan and to prevent the spread of extremism and terrorism.
India’s eye on visit
General Asim Munir visit to China is expected to strengthen the already close ties between the two countries and to provide an opportunity for them to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest. The visit comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, and it will be closely watched by India and other countries in the region. The outcome of the visit could have significant implications for the future of the China-Pakistan relationship and for the broader regional security situation.
International Monetary Fund warning
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is putting increasing pressure on cash-strapped Pakistan to get at least USD 6 billion to close the external payment liquidity deficit as a result of the visit.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE have already agreed to provide Pakistan USD 3 billion, but the international lender is demanding guarantees for the remaining sum.
Last Monday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the army chief for his efforts in collecting financial pledges from Pakistan’s allies.
Economic crisis
After years of neglect by several governments, Pakistan’s economy has been in terrible shape.
Due to the current political unrest in the nation, the economic situation has gotten worse. The financial crisis has worsened as a result of disputes over Punjab elections between the coalition government and Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf on the one hand, and the government and judiciary on the other.
