Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with the Pakistani prime minister here Tuesday.

Kong Quan noted that both China and Pakistan had established new governments not long ago, and this was the first time for the two heads of government to have talks with a foreign counterpart. They reviewed bilateral ties over the 52 years and exchanged in-depth views on the development of bilateral ties, Kong said.

During the talks, the two sides reached important consensus in four fields, such as strengthening high-level visits, enhancing exchanges and cooperation at all levels, and cementing economic and trade cooperation. They also agreed to strengthen cooperation and communication in international affairs, especially in fighting terrorism, Kong said.

As to the Iraq issue, Wen said that China had serious concerns over the current situation. China's stand had been consistent and clear, and China had made unremitting efforts for a political solution to the issue.

China called for an end to the war on Iraq as soon as possible to reduce the humanitarian disaster suffered by the Iraqi people, Wen said, adding that China advocated maintaining Iraq's sovereignty and territorial integrity and hoped a political solution could be resumed.

Jamali appreciated China's stand on the Iraq issue and hoped to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China in international affairs, Kong said.

(Xinhua News Agency March 25, 2003)