Wen vows closer military exchanges with Pakistan

Premier Wen Jiabao met with Pakistani Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani on Thursday, vowing to support closer military exchanges between both countries.

"China will consistently support Pakistan's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as back the country's economic growth and improvement of its people's livelihoods," he said.

Wen expressed his belief that the government, armed forces and people of Pakistan will work together to overcome the challenges facing them and achieve more rapid development.

In the face of complicated regional and global situations, cementing coordination between China and Pakistan and jointly meeting challenges meets the common interests of both nations, Wen added.

The premier said Pakistani armed forces have made important contributions toward maintaining bilateral relations and boosting the China-Pakistan strategic cooperative partnership.

He pledged to support stronger military exchanges and cooperation between both countries.

Kayani, who is currently on a six-day visit to China, expressed gratitude for China's efforts to aid Pakistan's economic growth and social stability, as well as China's support for Pakistan's efforts to maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Developing the China-Pakistan strategic cooperative partnership is a cornerstone of the foreign strategies of both countries, Kayani said.

Pakistani armed forces will unswervingly boost cooperation with China and firmly support China's efforts to maintain its core interests, he said.