BEIJING, July 8 (MENA) - China's Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mao Ning said on Tuesday China and Pakistan are traditional friendly neighbors and defense and security cooperation is part of the normal cooperation between the two countries and is not directed against a third party.

According to Chinese News Agency Xinhua, the Chinese official said in her statement that over the past weeks and months China has closely followed the developments between India and Pakistan actively promoted talks for peace and worked to maintain regional peace and stability.

Additionally, Mao said China welcomes and supports India and Pakistan improperly settling differences and seeking fundamental solutions through dialogue and consultation and that China stands ready to continue playing a constructive role for this end.

Addressing the China-India relations, Mao noted they are "at a crucial stage of improvement and development." She added, "China stands ready to work with India to move bilateral relations forward on a sound and steady track." (MENA)

S A S