ISLAMABAD, Oct 17: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Sunday assured China that the government had taken effective measures for the protection of all Chinese nationals working in Pakistan.

During a meeting with Chinese State Councillor Tang Jiaxuan, who is on a two-day visit to the country with a delegation, the prime minister appreciated the contribution of Chinese technicians and engineers and lauded the role of the neighbouring country's companies in the development of Pakistan.

He expressed sorrow on the death of a Chinese engineer who had been taken hostage and condemned the act of terrorism.

He said Pakistan and China would join hands in the counter-terrorism campaign.

The Chinese State councillor noted the efforts made by Pakistan in this regard and expressed the hope that the lives of the Chinese nationals, who were working here in a large number, would be protected.

The two leaders discussed bilateral, regional and international issues and expressed satisfaction over the strategic partnership between their countries.

The Chinese leader endorsed the policies and steps taken by the government to promote peace and stability in the region.

He said China supported the process of engagement with India and the composite dialogue process. He expressed the hope that process would lead to a positive outcome and solution to the outstanding issues between the two countries, including the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir.-APP