Chinese, Pakistani Presidents talk over phone
( 2001-10-01 09:01 ) (8 )

Chinese President Jiang Zemin and Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf had a telephone conversation Sunday night, and the two presidents exchanged views on the fight against terrorism and bilateral cooperation.

Jiang spoke highly of Musharraf's firm stance on anti-terrorism, saying he fully understands and respects the position Pakistan holds and the measures it has taken.

Jiang said that China is a sincere friend of Pakistan and will continue to enhance coordination and cooperation with Pakistan.

The Chinese president described terrorism as a common scourge for the international community, saying it poses a threat to the peace and development of the whole world.

The Chinese government is willing to join hands with Pakistan and the international community as well to combat terrorism of any form and further strengthen international cooperation in this respect.

Meanwhile, Jiang stressed that any anti-terror operation must be conducted with conclusive evidence and concrete targets, and should conform to the United Nations Charter tenet and principles and the commonly acknowledged norms of international law. "This is also a consensus reached by the international community."

Musharraf, on his part, agreed to Jiang's view, saying that the decision of the Pakistani government to support anti-terror operations has won the assent of the majority of the Pakistani people.

The current situation has brought about difficulties to Pakistan's economic development, and under such circumstances, Pakistan sincerely hopes to continue exchanges and cooperation with the international community, Musharraf said.

He stressed that the friendship between Pakistan and China has stood the test of time, and no matter what happens, the friendly relations will not be affected.

Jiang said this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan, and the two sides should make concerted efforts to move forward the friendly bilateral relations.

China is willing to continue enhancing the mutually beneficial cooperation with Pakistan in all fields, the Chinese president said.

To extend its support to the Pakistani government, the Chinese government has decided to offer 10 million yuan (about 1.21 million US dollars) of emergency aid to Pakistan, Jiang added.

Musharraf thanked China for its supports and assistance.