ISLAMABAD (The POST): Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Luo Zhaohui has said that Pakistan and China enjoy deep-rooted and time-tested friendship and its relations are based on respect, cooperation and both the countries will continue exploring ways to enhance cooperation in different spheres of life.

In a meeting with Allama Inayat Ali Shakir, the chairman of Tahreek Akhwat-e-Islami and Interfaith Dialogue Committee, the Chinese envoy said, "We appreciate the efforts of Pakistan for preserving the heritage of ancient civilization at Moenjodaro, Harappa and Texila."

Luo, appreciating efforts of TAI chief, said to promote interfaith harmony and peace forums provided opportunity to unite and gather the followers of different faiths and exchange their views, "In China followers of all faiths including Muslims are respected by the state organs," he added.

He said the historical Silk Road had been widened to facilitate more trade-related activities and tourism movement for the people of both the countries. Emphasizing media cooperation between the two countries, Luo said, "Role of media is very important to bring people and nations closer. Five Chinese newspapers have bureaus in Pakistan while APP news agency has its offices in China."

He stressed that dire need of time was that more Pakistani media organizations should establish and hold their offices in China. He said China had urged the Pakistani government to provide more security to the Chinese expatriates working in Pakistan and they were making such arrangements.

Allma Shakir welcomed Luo's appointment in Islamabad. "We condemn killing and kidnapping of Chinese expatriates in our country. Miscreants are jealous of Sino-Pak friendship but they will fail with all their evil designs, Shakir said.