BEIJING - Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said Monday that China will consistently support Pakistan's efforts in safeguarding national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

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Yang made the remarks in a phone call with Pakistani Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar concerning NATO bombing on two Pakistani border posts in a northwest tribal area bordering Afghanistan early Saturday morning.

Twenty-four Pakistani soldiers were killed and 13 others injured in the NATO action.

Yang said China was deeply shocked by the incident, noting that all countries and international organizations should earnestly respect Pakistan's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He also called for a thorough investigation of the incident.

The two ministers also exchanged views on China-Pakistan relations and issues of common concern.