Tuesday, August 22 2006 17:56 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Beijing: China and Pakistan aim to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism, under a bill tabled in China's legislature today (Aug 22, 2006).

China has already signed a similar agreement with Kazakstan, Tadzhikistan and Uzbekistan to safeguard regional peace and stability.

Briefing lawmakers of the standing committee of the National People's Congress, Vice Foreign Minister Wu Dawei said the bill to ratify the agreement was necessary as the "three evil forces" had threatened the lives of Pakistanis and Chinese working and living in Pakistan.

The agreement would help safeguard China's national interests and promote cooperation between the two countries, he said.

The 18-article agreement defines terrorism, separatism and extremism, and outlines the scope of cooperation between the countries.

The bill will be submitted for a final vote after deliberation on Aug 27.