ISLAMABAD: China has clarified that its policy on Pakistan and Pakistan`s counterterrorism ef forts remains unchanged.

`There is no change in China`s stand on counterterrorism.

Moreover, there is no change in China`s stand on support for Pakistan`s stance on counterterrorism...China will firmly support and cooperate with Pakistan on this issue as always,` a senior Islamabad-based Chinese officialsaid on Wednesday while explaining his government`s position on BRICS Summit Declaration.

The explanation comes ahead of Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif`s Beijing visit on Friday.

The Declaration had noted the concern of BRICS leadership aboutthe threat to regional security from militant groups, including Lashkare-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, Afghan Taliban and Haqqani network, which are alleged to be operating from Pakistani soil.

It called for holding to account those `committing, organising, or supporting terrorist acts`.Indians celebrated the Declaration as a diplomatic victory.

In BRICS Declaration, some, therefore, saw a hint of change in China`s position towards Pakistan.

The Chinese official sought to dispel that impression, saying it`s hoped that `Pakistan can view the situation in correct and calm manner`. He said: `China consistently speaks for Pakistan and hopes that this tradition will be carried on in the future`.

He clarified that the concern expressed in Xiamen Declaration related to the situation in Afghanistan. He said China appreciated Pakistani contributions to efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan.

He said Beijing called for `a holistic counterterrorism strategy` and opposed `double standards on counterterrorism`.