Islamabad: Pakistan today (Nov 14) favoured inclusion of its time-tested ally China as well as Iran in SAARC and amending the charter of the regional economic grouping to discuss political issues among the member-countries.

On his return from a tour of India, Pakistan's Information Minister Sheikh Rashid said SAARC membership should be expanded to include China and Iran and the charter be widened to include discussion on political issues confronting the member states."

"Its role could be expanded for making it a more effective and a viable body," official news agency APP quoted Rashid as saying.

Rashid said the Indian media had been "hostile" to him during his Delhi visit but he made every effort to avert any showdown with it.

PTI