A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman stressed on Tuesday that China values, and hopes to develop, friendly and cooperative relations with all neighboring countries including those in South Asia.

FM spokesman Qin Gang made the remarks when responding to a Pakistani journalist's question on China's general strategy of developing relations with South Asian neighboring countries, Pakistan in particular.

Qin said China follows the principle of building friendship with neighboring countries and regards Pakistan and all other countries in South Asia as its friendly neighbors.

China hopes to make joint efforts with its South Asian neighbors to further the development of friendly cooperation to benefit each other, said Qin.

Qin mentioned the official visit by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to Pakistan and some other South Asian countries last April and a state visit by Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf to China in February this year.

Qin said during Musharraf's visit the two sides achieved consensus on bilateral cooperation across a range of subjects and coordination in international issues.

Qin said China will work with its South Asian neighbors to safeguard peace and stability in the region and promote common development.

Source: Xinhua