China has welcomed Pakistan's inclusion in the high-profile security club Asean Regional Forum (ARF).
"We are glad to see Pakistan's admission in the ARF and hope it would strengthen the organisation to realise its aims and objectives," said a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign office Zhang Qiyue.
China has always been supporting Pakistan's participation in regional groups and associations. Talking to APP, she said Pakistan is an important country in the region and we hope it will play a positive and active role in the organisation, achieving economic prosperity and promoting regional peace and stability
The spokeswoman said China attaches great importance to ARF in the Asian region. "We consider it most important forum in further consolidating mutual trust and co-operation between its member countries in the areas of common interest," Zhang said.