BEIJING, Nov 4: A Chinese official has denied reports that Beijing has withdrawn its workers from Pakistan. When asked to comment on reports, Chinese Foreign Office spokeswoman Zhang Qiyue said: "The Chinese Government has not decided to withdraw Chinese personnel working on projects in Pakistan. There is no truth in such reports."

"We heard that the Chinese company working on the Gomal Zam dam project has withdrawn its personnel and now it is consulting the Water and Power Development Authority on relevant issues," she added.

Talking to APP, Ms Zhang said she believed that the company had temporarily suspended work for security reasons. The Chinese leadership had already expressed its commitment that it would continue to provide assistance to Pakistan, she added.

According to the Chinese state news agency, Xinhua, President Hu Jintao during his meeting with National Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Amir Hussain held in Beijing last week appreciated Pakistan's efforts to secure release of Chinese workers.

Mr Hu said China valued its traditional friendship with Pakistan and persists in enhancing friendship.