英语文摘:Chinese premier, Pakistani president vow to boost ties

ISLAMABAD, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari here on Saturday, and the two leaders agreed to boost the traditional China-Pakistan friendship.

Wen said he felt the profound and brotherly feelings of the Pakistani people when he landed in the country for a second time after five years.

The Chinese premier, who arrived here Friday, said China values the time-tested friendship with Pakistan and hopes to expand bilateral cooperation.

In the new global and regional situation, Wen said China and Pakistan are facing new opportunities and challenges to develop their ties.

China will maintain the frequent exchanges of visits by state leaders and increase dialogue at different levels, he said.

Visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (L) shakes hands with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari during their meeting in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, Dec. 18, 2010.

The two countries will enhance their strategic coordination, scale up the cooperation of mutual benefit, better safeguard their shared interests and realize common development, Wen said.

Regarding the floods which hit Pakistan this summer and caused huge losses, Wen said the Chinese government and people shared the pain of the Pakistani people.

China would help the flood-hit Pakistanis to weather through the difficulties and rebuild their homes, the Chinese premier said.

Zardari, for his part, said China and Pakistan are true partners and close brothers with multi-dimensional cooperation, holding the same or similar positions on key regional and international issues.

The ever-deepening friendship has contributed to the economic development and the social harmony in both countries, and also helped promote regional peace, stability and development, the president said.

Wen's visit to Pakistan, which is significant and fruitful, will push the bilateral relations to a new high, he said.

Wen arrived here Friday for a three-day visit.