China says ties with Pakistan time-tested

BEIJING: China cherishes its time-tested relationship with Pakistan and is committed to further strengthen it in the best possible and most meaningful manner.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said here, while talking to a group of journalists from South Asia during a brief meeting with them at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office.

She said her country and its people can never forget the cooperation extended by Pakistanis to China over the years including those in difficult times and while China is now on a new path of prosperity and growth it wishes the same for one of its most cherished friends and neighbors. Hua in reply to a question said China is keen to see a cordial relationship based on mutual trust and respect among all South Asian countries.

China practices and firmly supports this approach and despite border disputes with two of its neighbors has entered into a series of contacts beneficial for the people in general, she told journalists from Pakistan Afghanistan Bangladesh India and Nepal presently attending a program organized by the China Public Diplomacy Association.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said China’s relationship with India despite certain issues is yet to be settled and has taken a new turn as it has duly realized the potential that exists in the region for economic growth and public prosperity which must not be ignored. 

It is through mutual trust and sincerity of purpose that all issues can be settled in the larger interest of peace with the common people being the ultimate beneficiaries, Hua Chunying added.