MUTUAL SUPPORT

Visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attend a press conference after their talks in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, April 20, 2015.[Photo/Xinhua]

During the talks, the Chinese president proposed that the two countries encourage exchanges between governments, legislative bodies, political parties and armed forces.

China appreciates Pakistan's consistent support on issues related to Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet and South China Sea, Xi said.

China will continue to staunchly support Pakistan for its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, he said.

Xi called on the two countries to strengthen security cooperation.

He stressed that China commends Pakistan's contribution to the international counter-terrorism efforts, and will continue to support Pakistan in implementing its counter-terrorism strategy in accordance with its national conditions and enhancing counter-terrorism capacity building.

The president suggested that two countries jointly hold events to celebrate the China-Pakistan Year of Friendly Exchanges in 2015, and make best use of such platforms as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to enhance policy coordination and strategic collaboration on major international and regions issues.

China supports Pakistan in improving relations with neighboring countries and welcomes Pakistan to join the SCO as a full member, Xi said.

China values Pakistan's unique role on Afghanistan and stands ready to make joint efforts with Pakistan to push the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, he said.

Sharif said Pakistan is committed to the One China policy and supports China's positions on issues concerning Taiwan, Xinjiang, Tibet and South China Sea.

Pakistan is willing to step up economic and trade engagement with China, and increase people-to-people and cultural exchanges. It appreciates China's constructive role in affairs in this region, he said.

Pakistan supports the China-proposed initiative of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and will also actively participate in the building of the China-proposed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Sharif said.