China-Pak relations ‘higher than mountain, deeper than ocean’

“Higher than the mountains and deeper than the ocean.” Seldom is the diplomatic relation between two countries described in such lofty adjectives. But then China and Pakistan evidently share a special bond.

“Higher than the mountains and deeper than the ocean.” Seldom is the diplomatic relation between two countries described in such lofty adjectives. But then China and Pakistan evidently share a special bond even if another neighbour has arguably played a role in bringing them so close.

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The friendship between Beijing and Islamabad was described by the Chinese state media in glowing terms as Premier Li Keqiang began his day-long Pakistan visit on Wednesday.

“China and Pakistan have shaped a paradigm of neighbour-to-neighbour relations. Their time-tested friendship, described by some as "higher than the mountains and deeper than the oceans," is not just a bunch of empty words,” a commentary in the state-run Xinhua news agency said.

It added that despite differences in ideology, religion, culture and social system, the bilateral ties have withstood various tests and vicissitudes of international situations.

Words and phrases like high level of mutual trust, equality and cooperation were used to describe the relation.

“Politically, the two have always been a staunch supporter for each other on issues concerning their core interests. Pakistan firmly supports China's position on Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and human rights. China fully respects the Pakistani people's choice of development path,” the commentary added.

Not only the state media but Beijing-based experts had reiterated to HT that the relation between the China and India will not be at the cost of Pakistan.

The Xinhua commentary, while talking between Pakistan-China military ties, hinted that their defence cooperation wasn’t targeted against a third country – read, India.

“Militarily, China eyes pragmatic and effective cooperation with Pakistan, which is in the front line of the fight against international terrorism. The military exchanges are not directed against any third party and contribute to peace and stability in both the region and the whole world,” the commentary said.

“China follows a parrelel diplomacy in dealing with India and Pakistan. That is to say, developing Sino-India relations will not at the cost of Sino-Pak relations, and vice versa,” Professor Hu Shisheng, expert on South Asia, told HT last week.

“China and Pakistan can always count on each other for sincere and selfless support and assistance. China has taken an active part in the rescue and relief work and reconstruction after massive floods hit Pakistan, while the Pakistanis have done alike for the Chinese,” it added.