China sincerely hopes Pakistan will maintain its political stability and economic progress, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Qin Gang said in Beijing Monday.

In response to questions about China's comment on Musharraf's resignation and on his efforts to promote the relations between the two countries, Qin said the change in Pakistan is its internal affairs.

"As a friendly neighbor," Qin said, "China sincerely hopes Pakistan will maintain its political stability and economic progress."

Qin said that in his term as President, Musharraf played an important role in developing the bilateral relations and Chinese side appreciated it very much.

"We hope and believe the friendly relationship and cooperation between the two countries will continue to move forward with the joint efforts of the two sides." Qin said.

(Xinhua News Agency August 19, 2008)