Pakistan Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said Wednesday that Pakistan's relationship with China is unique and has withstood the test of time.

Addressing representatives of the leading think tanks, top corporate leaders and senior media persons at the Pakistan embassy in Beijing, Khar said the foundation of a solid relationship was laid by the founder of Pakistan People Party, Chairman Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, and the succeeding administrations in both countries continued to strengthen these bonds.

Regarding Pakistan's role on counter terrorism, Khar said her country has set a shining example. The East Turkminstan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is a common enemy of China and Pakistan, and both countries are firmly resolved to eliminate the menace.

Khar also pointed out that cooperation, whether in bilateral trade, economy or investments, is not commensurate with the political relations. She referenced the two country's cooperation in banking, energy and other sectors. "We are looking for currency swap arrangements. The ICBC (Industrial and Commercial Bank of China) has opened its branches in Pakistan," she said.

The bilateral trade volume reached US$8.7 billion in 2010, a 27.7 percent increase from the year before. In addition, China and Pakistan have in place a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Pakistan-China diplomatic relationships. Both sides have exchanged youth delegations, and each has held various cultural activities and exhibitions.

Khar was on her first visit to China since assuming her office on July 20. She met with Premier Wen Jiabao and Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Wednesday before the address.

Born on Nov. 19, 1977, Khar is not only the first female Minister of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, but also the youngest to hold this post.

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