BEIJING, April 8: Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Thursday said that China-Pakistan relations were unique and nothing could drive a wedge between the two countries. He was talking to Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri at a meeting held here on Thursday evening.

He said the two countries enjoyed excellent relations in the region and these could not be affected under any circumstances. He appreciated Pakistan's fight against terrorism and its efforts for promoting peace and stability in the region. He also thanked the Pakistani leadership for their cooperation in combating terrorist activities inside China.

Official sources told APP that the two sides exchanged views on Sino-Pakistan relations and the situation in South Asia, as well as other matters of bilateral interests.

The Chinese premier reiterated support of his country to the efforts being made for normalization of relations between India and Pakistan and for settling the disputes peacefully. The two sides emphasized the need for strengthening economic partnership between the two countries.

Earlier, during the meeting held between Foreign Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri and his Chinese counterpart, Li Zhaoxing, the two sides agreed to form a study group, exploring ways and means of promoting free trade between the two countries.

Speaking on the occasion, Li Zhaoxing said: "The only country in the world with whom we describe our relationship as all weather friendship is Pakistan." Reciprocating the sentiments, Mr Kasuri said: "The people of Pakistan regard China as a very close friend." -APP/DPA