China welcomes three-year extension in tenure of COAS Qamar Javed Bajwa

RAWALPINDI (92 News) – China has welcomed three-year extension in the tenure of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said that COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa is an old friend of China and the army and posses extraordinary leadership qualities. “Extension in the tenure of COAS Qamar Javed Bajwa is a good step of the government,” he maintained. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that Pak Army will continue its role for peace in the region. “COAS Qamar Bajwa played a positive role in the Pak-China relations,” said Geng Shuang. Expressing complete confidence in the army chief, Shuang underscored China’s belief that the “Pakistan army will continue to make contributions to upholding Pakistan sovereignty and security interests and regional peace and stability under the leadership of General Bajwa.” On August 19, Prime Minister Imran Khan gave a three-year extension to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) in view of the ‘regional security environment’. “General Qamar Javed Bajwa is appointed Chief of Army Staff for another term of three years from the date of completion of current tenure. The decision has been taken in view of the regional security environment,” said a brief statement issued by the PM office on Monday. General Bajwa, who was set to retire on November 29 on completion of his three-year term, will continue to serve as head of the armed forces until November 2022.