Chinese state television showed Premier Wen Jiabao welcoming Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani to the Great Hall of the People.

Mr. Wen said that no matter what international changes may take place, China and Pakistan will forever remain good neighbors, good friends, good partners and good brothers.

The Pakistani leader called China his country’s best friend, and said the two nations have decided to take defense, economic and cultural ties to new heights.

The two countries are celebrating China-Pakistan Friendship Year, to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Both leaders also witnessed the signing of several agreements on finance and economic cooperation.