BEIJING, Feb 20 (INP): China stands ready to engage in third-party cooperation with Pakistan to implement the two-country’s corridor projects.

“We can do it on the basis of consensus,” said a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Geng Shuang at a regular news briefing while commenting on Saudi Arabia’s investment in Pakistan.

“We have noted relevant reports about the Saudi Arabia’s investment and are glad to see Pakistan develop friendly exchanges and cooperation with other countries.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a pioneering project of the Belt and Road Initiative and has been following the principle of wide consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits as well as openness and transparency.

Last year, during State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Pakistan, the two sides agreed to welcome third parties to join the CPEC projects so that the CPEC will not only benefit the people of China and Pakistan, but also help the region enhance economic cooperation and connectivity and realize common development, he added.

Replying to a question regarding growing tension between Pakistan and India in recent days, the spokesperson said, “Pakistan and India are both important countries in South Asia. A stable Pakistan-India relationship is crucial to regional peace, stability and development.

At present, the situation in South Asia is generally stable, which is hard-won and should be cherished and upheld by relevant parties.

China hopes that Pakistan and India can exercise restraint, engage in dialogues and realize an early "soft landing" of this issue.”

INP/J/AJ