BEIJING, March 27 (Xinhua) -- China will work with Pakistan to promote the bilateral friendly relationship of cooperation, says Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang here Thursday.

    At a regular press conference on Thursday afternoon, Qin made the remarks when commenting on the election of Yousuf Raza Gillani, vice-president of the Pakistan People's Party, as Pakistan's new Prime Minister.

    Qin said China has maintained a close and good neighbourly relationship of cooperation with Pakistan, and is willing to promote it to a new high.

    Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao sent a congratulatory message to Gillani on Tuesday.