Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji told visiting Pakistani Chief Executive Pervez Musharaf on January 17 that no matter what changes occur internationally or domestically, the Chinese government will continue to foster its comprehensive partnership with Pakistan.

"This is a basic policy that we will not change," Zhu stressed, adding that China is "fully confident that Sino-Pakistani relations in the coming 21st century will get better and better."

During talks with Musharaf this afternoon, Zhu said "it is of great practical and far-reaching significance, and in line with the fundamental interests of both peoples, to further consolidate and strengthen Sino-Pakistani comprehensive cooperative partnership, given the continuously changing regional and international situation."

Extending a warm welcome to Musharaf on behalf of the Chinese government, Zhu said he believes that the current visit will further promote mutual understanding and trust, and push forward the good-will and cooperative ties between both countries.

China and Pakistan are neighbors who have long peacefully coexisted with each other, and China treasures the friendship which has withstood the test of time, Zhu said.

Zhu said that both countries are able to maintain stable development in bilateral relations because they strictly adhere to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

China and Pakistan, both developing countries, consistently show sympathy, understanding, trust and support for each other, and have carried out successful cooperation both in the cause of building their own countries and in international affairs, said Zhu, adding that the Chinese government and people are satisfied with the growth of bilateral relations.

Zhu also expressed his gratitude to Pakistan for its unswerving support to China on a number of issues concerning the interests of China.

Musharaf said that the long-standing goodwill between both countries is felt deeply by the people of Pakistan, and Pakistan will always treasure it. Pakistan admires China's vigorous development and great achievements, he said, adding that he believes China will play a greater role on the international stage as its world status continues to rise.

Musharaf also briefed Zhu on the domestic situation in Pakistan, emphasizing that the Pakistani government is now devoted to recovering its economy and realizing national unity.

"Pakistan is a country that loves peace, and will contribute topeace and stability in South Asia," he stressed.

Zhu pointed out that the internal affairs of a country should and must be handled by its own people, which is not only the core of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, but also a basic policy China has steadfastly pursued and carried out in handling relations between different countries.

China believes that Musharaf will continue to properly handle the various issues presently facing Pakistan and will win more understanding and support from the international community, Zhu said.

Concerning bilateral economic and trade ties, both sides promised to work together to explore new approaches and new ways to promote bilateral trade and economic developments.

Zhu suggested that both sides further enhance macro-directions for bilateral economic and trade activities, pointing out that contract cooperation should be expanded and Chinese enterprises will, as always, be encouraged to invest in Pakistan.

After the talks, Zhu and Musharaf attended the signing ceremony of a cooperation agreement on economic technology between both governments.