China has reiterated its firm support for Pakistan's efforts to combat all forms of terrorism and expressed hope that the Pakistani military will continue to ensure the security of Chinese personnel, projects and institutions within the country.

Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs of the Communist Party of China, made the remarks on Thursday during a meeting in Beijing with Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir.

Wang congratulated Munir on his recent appointment as field marshal, describing the Pakistani military as a steadfast guardian of national interests and a strong pillar of China-Pakistan friendship. He expressed confidence that the Pakistani armed forces will continue to make efforts to advance bilateral relations.

Calling China and Pakistan "ironclad friends" and "all-weather strategic partners", Wang emphasized that China consistently prioritizes Pakistan in its neighborhood diplomacy.

He said Beijing is ready to work with Islamabad to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of both countries, further deepen their strategic cooperation, deliver greater benefits to their peoples, and contribute to regional peace and stability.

Munir said that strengthening friendly cooperation with China enjoys broad support across Pakistani society. He pledged that the Pakistani military will continue taking all necessary measures to safeguard Chinese citizens, enterprises and projects in Pakistan, while actively enhancing counter-terrorism cooperation with China.