Cao, also vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission and a state councilor, said China and Pakistan were good neighbors and bilateral relations had developed steadily against a backdrop of changes at home and abroad for more than 50 years.

Exchanges and cooperation between the two countries were fruitful, he said, adding they had kept close contact in international affairs on the basis of mutual understanding and support.

China's good relations with Pakistan were regarded as a model for countries of different social and cultural backgrounds, he said.

China had always regarded Pakistan as a most sincere and reliable friend, he said.

Cao said military-to-military relations between the two countries were an important part of state-to-state relations.

For many years, high-level exchanges of military officials were frequent and the fields of cooperation between the two sides were extensive, he said.

With the concerted efforts of the two sides, military relations would further develop, contributing to the all-round friendly cooperative ties, he stressed.

Jamali said Pakistan's government valued friendly relations with China and the Pakistani people appreciated the long-term help from the Chinese government.

No matter what happened in the world and in Pakistan, the Pakistani government would be dedicated to promoting friendly relations with China.

The new governments of the two nations would continue to make concerted efforts to safeguard world peace and stability, he said.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Iraq issue.

(Xinhua News Agency March 25, 2003)