Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf in Islamabad Wednesday said his country attaches great importance to the relations with China and thanked China for its support in the country's economic development.

During a meeting with a Chinese parliamentary delegation led by Vice Chairman of the National People's Congress Li Tieying, Musharraf said relationship between the two friendly countries has stood the test to time and will be strengthened further in the future.

Musharraf thanked China for extending support to Pakistan in the implementation of its mega-projects like the Gwadar deep sea port and the Chashma nuclear power plants.

He emphasized the need for enhanced trade and economic relations to match political relationship between the two countries.

On the occasion, Li Tieying conveyed good wishes to Musharraf and the people of Pakistan from the Chinese leadership.

He said China appreciates the economic achievements made by Pakistan over the past four and a half years in different sectors of the country's economy.

Li, who led a 19-member delegation, kicked off a three-nation visit Sunday. He will also visit Maldives and Thailand.

(Xinhua News Agency June 10, 2004)