Improving ties in India and Pak's own interest: China

Islamabad, May 5 (ANI): Noting that India and Pakistan are the two major countries in the subcontinent and play an important role in international affairs, China has clarified that improving ties between the two countries is in their own and the region's interest.

During an interview, China's Deputy Chief of Mission in Islamabad Huang Xilian said the resumption of talks between India and Pakistan is important for both countries and added that Beijing would also like the talks to restart soon.

Describing Pakistan as his country's close friend, Xilian said Beijing has been assisting Islamabad in over 120 development projects and would continue to help that troubled nation.

He said China was also ready to provide financial support to Pakistan for establishing hydel power projects in order to help it overcome the massive energy crisis facing the country.

"We have to strengthen and substantiate our cooperation to further strengthen our relations. We have been working closely with the Pakistan government in this regard to ensure peace and security in the region," The Daily Times quoted Xilian, as saying.

He said China is also providing necessary assistance to Pakistan in its fight against terrorism and extremism. (ANI)