China voiced its strong condemnation over the terrorist bombing in northwest Pakistan, saying it will continue to back Pakistan's combat against terrorism.

"China strongly condemns the terrorist attack and extends its deep condolences to the victims and their families," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said at a routine press conference Thursday.

Qin noted that, as a friendly neighbor of Pakistan, China will continue to offer its support for the Pakistani government and people to combat terrorism and maintain social stability.

On Tuesday, a suicide truck bomb ripped through the five-star hotel Pearl Continental, killing at least 18 people and wounding about 70 in Peshawar, capital of a northwest Pakistani province plagued by Taliban violence.

No one has claimed responsibility.

(Xinhua News Agency June 11, 2009)