Beijing July 27 (IANS) China has closely watched Pakistan s general election and hopes for a smooth political transition in the country a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Friday.
Imran Khan chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf claimed victory in the election on Thursday. He spoke highly of relations with China during a television address noting that Pakistan s new government would continue to develop friendly exchanges and cooperation with China.
"China has kept an eye on the general election of Pakistan and sincerely hopes the country can realize a smooth political transition and keep stability for better development " spokesperson Geng Shuang said at a regular press conference Xinhua reported.
"Imran Khan has reiterated that relations with China are the footstone of Pakistan s foreign policy that no matter which party takes office a friendly policy towards China will not be changed. "
In his address Khan said that China had given a chance to Pakistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and Pakistan could learn from China on such areas as reducing poverty and anti-corruption.
"China has noticed the positive remarks by Imran Khan and believes people from all walks of life in Pakistan are firm supporters of the China-Pakistan friendly relationship " Geng said. "The China-Pakistan all-weather strategic cooperative partnership will not be shaken despite how the situation changes."

--IANS ahm/