Imran Khan said that China has stood by Pakistan in every good and bad time and that Islamabad’s future is connected with its all-weather ally. We are further strengthening our ties with China, said Khan. China also needs Pakistan very much, said Pak PM. Khan's statement comes amid tension between India and China

Islamabad: While India is locked in a bitter face-off with China in Ladakh, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday boasted about the strong ties between Islamabad and Beijing.

In an interview with a private news channel on Tuesday, Khan said that China has stood by Pakistan in every good and bad time and that Islamabad’s future is connected with its all-weather ally.

“We are further strengthening our ties with China. China also needs Pakistan very much,” he said.

Khan further said that Chinese President Xi Jinping’s scheduled visit to Pakistan in May this year was postponed in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. Jinping is now likely to visit Pakistan in winter.

India, China Bitter Ties

India and China have been locked in a high-altitude standoff in several locations in eastern Ladakh for over two months since May 5. The tension flared up manifold after a violent clash in Galwan Valley in which 20 Indian Army personnel were martyred.

Earlier this week, China had said it is ready to work with India to enhance political mutual trust, properly manage their differences and safeguard the long-term development of bilateral ties.

During his interview, Khan also discussed several other issues including Israel, Kashmir, Afghan peace process, the News International reported.

'My Conscience Will Never Accept Israel'

Speaking about Israel, the Prime Minister said that his conscience will never accept Israel, adding the founder of Pakistan Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had made it clear that until the Palestinians get their due rights, they will not recognise Israel.

"Our position on Israel is very clear. Pakistan can never recognise Israel. We also have to answer to the Almighty about Israel and Palestine," he said.

Talking about Afghan peace process, Khan said that earlier America used Pakistan for war, but today both are partners in peace. "We are partners in the peace process in Afghanistan,” he said.