(28 Jun 1999) Natural Sound
Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrived in Beijing early on Monday at the start of a five day visit.
The simmering Kashmir dispute that threatens to erupt into an all-out war between
Pakistan and India, is expected to dominate discussions
But there will also be time to sign several agreements, including defence cooperation between the two countries.
Nawaz Sharif arrived in Beijing seeking Chinese support for its demand for a 'final' settlement of the decades old Kashmir dispute with neighbouring India.
So far China's stand on the dispute has been neutral, urging both sides to open fresh talks.
Sharif was due to meet Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji on Monday afternoon
A Pakistan foreign ministry statement said the two long-time allies will also focus on regional security and peace in South Asia.
That peace and security is under threat over the Kashmir situation.
India accuses Pakistan of sending armed intruders across the disputed border.
After several weeks of denying involvement, Pakistan's Army Chief on Saturday said Pakistan would not unilaterally withdraw from Kargil, where militants are fighting Indian soldiers.
Since India launched a crackdown to dislodge militants in the Kargil area of Kashmir six weeks ago, both Indian and Pakistan have sent their foreign ministers to China.
Sharif is also to meet Chinese President Jiang Zemin and sign several agreements, including on defence cooperation.
Two years ago the United States accused China of selling Pakistan M-11 missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads and of sharing nuclear technology. Both countries denied the charges.
Last year, both Pakistan and India carried out underground nuclear tests which were condemned by the international community.
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