Pakistan’s Army Chief Strengthens Defense Ties with China Amid Rising South Asia Tensions
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, recently held high-level discussions with China’s top political and military leadership, focusing on defense modernization, counterterrorism, and enhanced strategic cooperation, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed on Friday.
The talks came against the backdrop of heightened tensions in South Asia, following a four-day military confrontation between Pakistan and India. During this standoff — the most intense in over two decades — both nations engaged with fighter jets, drones, missiles, and artillery.
According to Pakistani military officials, the country’s air force deployed Chinese-built J-10C jets to down six Indian fighter aircraft, including three Rafales, while Pakistan’s army targeted several Indian installation.
China-Pakistan Defense Collaboration Deepens
Field Marshal Munir met with senior Chinese leaders, including Vice President Han Zheng, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and top military commanders. These engagements revolved around joint counterterrorism efforts, advanced military training, interoperability, and strengthening institutional defense ties.
ISPR stated:
“Discussions emphasized operational cooperation and strategic coordination to counter hybrid and transnational threats. Chinese leaders reaffirmed their trust in the partnership, acknowledging Pakistan’s vital role in maintaining regional stability.”
China, which has not been engaged in a major conflict for more than forty years, has rapidly modernized its armed forces under President Xi Jinping. This drive extends to Pakistan, often described by Beijing as its “iron brother.” Over the last five years, China has supplied 81% of Pakistan’s imported military hardware, including fighter jets, missile systems, and radars, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Additionally, China has co-developed several defense systems with Pakistan and is investing more than $60 billion through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to strengthen infrastructure, energy, and strategic connectivity projects.
Regional Context: India, China, and Pakistan
The recent Pakistan-India standoff, triggered by an attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, highlighted a rare direct contest between Chinese military technology and Western-made weaponry. The clash boosted confidence in China’s defense sector, with Chinese defense stocks rising afterward.
Meanwhile, India has announced a $234 million initiative to promote domestic production of civil and military drones, aiming to reduce dependence on imports and counter Pakistan’s growing drone program — supported by China and Turkiye.
China and India, despite being economic giants and nuclear powers, remain long-term strategic rivals, sharing a disputed 3,800 km Himalayan border that has sparked conflict since the 1950s, including the 1962 border war.
Strengthening the “Ironclad” Alliance
During his official visit, Field Marshal Munir also held talks with General Zhang Youxia (Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission), General Chen Hui (Political Commissar of the PLA Army), and Lt. Gen. Cai Zhai Jun (Chief of Staff of the PLA Army).
He was accorded a ceremonial guard of honor at the PLA Army Headquarters, underscoring the enduring camaraderie between the two nations’ armed forces.
ISPR concluded:
“This visit underscores the growing depth of political and military ties between Pakistan and China, reaffirming their shared vision for regional stability and ongoing collaboration across all defense domains.”
