President Xi Jinping called on Friday for deeper strategic communication and pragmatic cooperation between China and Pakistan as the two nations celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

In a congratulatory message exchanged with his Pakistani counterpart Arif Alvi, Xi urged steps to promote the high-quality operation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and to jointly foster an even closer community with a shared future for the new era between the two sides.

The two nations, as all-weather strategic cooperative partners, have also extended each other steadfast support over issues concerning their core interests and major concerns, he said, adding that their mutual trust and friendship have always been rock solid despite changes in the international situation over the past seven decades.

He noted that the development of the CPEC, with joint efforts from both sides, has secured remarkable outcomes in recent years, which delivered benefits to both peoples and added strong momentum to regional prosperity.

Faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, Beijing and Islamabad have stood in solidarity and offered each other sincere mutual assistance, which further elevated their strong bilateral friendship, he said.

Alvi said in his message that Pakistan and China have always trusted, respected and supported each other over the past 70 years, and have shared weal and woe.

The bilateral relationship is stronger, more solid and prosperous than ever, and the Pakistani side more than appreciates the precious support from China in its fight against COVID-19, he said.

Premier Li Keqiang also exchanged messages with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday, a day after the two spoke by phone.

Vice-President Wang Qishan on Friday attended a reception marking the 70th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between the two countries in Beijing.

The two nations are set to host over 120 celebrations within the year, covering politics, diplomacy, economics, science, education and health, in order to give fresh momentum to bilateral relations, Zhao Lijian, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, told a news briefing on Friday.