Beijing, Dec. 31 : China has expressed deep concern over strained relations between India and Pakistan.

"As a neighbour of both countries -India and Pakistan - we hope that the two sides would solve relevant issues through dialogue and consultation, improve their relations and jointly commit to peace and stability in South Asia," The Daily Times quoted the Chinese Foreign Office spokesman Qin Gang, as saying.

The Deputy Foreign Minister of China, He Yafie, on his recent visit to Pakistan, informed Pakistan of China's stance on the recent developments in the region, Qin added.

He said that Islamabad has also expressed its willingness to work together with India and China to fight terrorism in the region.

"Islamabad expressed its willingness to hold dialogue to improve relations with India, and make a joint effort to combat terrorism in the region and to bring stability to South Asia," Qin said.

The Chinese spokesman added that the Foreign Minister of China Yang Jiechi has also explained China's stance on the issue to his Indian, U. S, Russian and Pakistani counterparts. (ANI)