Terming Pakistan-China friendship as an anchor of peace and stability in this part of the world, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said on Sunday that China’s unique development experience was a model for developing countries.
“Pakistan-China relations are a unique example of abiding friendship, immense mutual respect and close partnership. This relationship is based on immeasurable trust. When we speak of this friendship as being “taller than the Himalayas and deeper than the oceans” it truly captures the essence of our relationship,” he said, while addressing at Pak-China Friendship Centre in a ceremony to mark Pak-China friendship year.
He said the foundation of this everlasting friendship was laid by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and it had withstood the test of times in all these years. “We are proud to have China as our best and most trusted friend. And China will always find Pakistan standing beside it at all times,” he added. The premier said that the historic visit of Premier Wen Jiabao last year was a demonstration of our unique relationship.
“President Asif Ali Zardari has visited China six times. Each of these has been extremely beneficial and rewarding. I eagerly look forward to my forthcoming visit to China later this month. We have, and continue to greatly benefit, from the support of the Chinese leadership,” Gilani said. He said China’s success in various fields was a matter of great pride for the people and the government of Pakistan.
“Today China is the world’s second largest economy. China has achieved this success through hard work, ingenuity, and above all the wisdom and vision of its leadership,” he said. The PM said Pakistan was fortunate to learn from the experience of a successful friend and a great neighbour.
“We are grateful to China for its commitment to share its development experience with us. The Silk Route of yester years has been replaced by the great Karakoram Highway, which was built with the joint efforts and sacrifices of our people. It stands out as a testimony of our commitment to stand by each other,” he said.
