Beijing, Nov 05: Though failing to get explicit Chinese support for his intransigent Kashmir stance, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf concluded his visit to China today after obtaining assurances from the new Chinese leadership on safeguarding Pakistan's "sovereignty and territorial integrity". "The Chinese side reaffirms that it respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan, and appreciates and supports the efforts of Pakistan for peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues with neighbours and to safeguard its state sovereignty and independence," the first ever joint declaration between the two countries, issued late last night, said.
The stress on Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the joint declaration assumes significance in the wake of statements by top Indian leaders that India would take back the Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), analysts said.
Pakistan's official media has also reported that Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao also reassured that Beijing was committed to support Pakistan's territorial integrity.
"I am sure, you will be leaving China at the end of the state visit, with the reassurance of the continued commitment of the new Chinese leadership for the progress, prosperity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan," the media quoted him as saying.
Bureau Report