China and Pakistan on Tuesday agreed on seeking stronger relations between their parliaments.
The message came out of the meeting between top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo and Pakistan Senate Chairman Farooq Naek at the Great Hall of the People.
"I hope your visit will further all-round friendly exchanges and cooperation between the two parliaments," said Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature.
Naek said the Pakistan Senate would like to work with the NPC to promote pragmatic ties.
This was Naek's first trip to China since assuming office in March.
Wu said bilateral strategic partnership had progressed with frequent high-level visits, deeper political trust, growing strategic cooperation and closer coordination on international affairs.
Wu said China appreciated Pakistan's support on issues concerning China's crucial interests, including Taiwan, human rights and combating the "Eastern Turkestan."
"China has always taken a strategic and long-term perspective of ties with Pakistan. Our policy will remain unchanged despite changes in international and domestic arenas," Wu said.
Naek said it was the united stance of the Pakistan government, parliament and all parties to develop good relations with China.
Beijing was the second leg, after Shanghai, of Naek's eight-day visit to China at the invitation of top Chinese political advisor Jia Qinglin.
(Xinhua News Agency July 15, 2009)
