China's extraordinary rise, bears testimony to wisdom of its leaders: Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has said that China's extraordinary rise over the past 62 years bears testimony to the wisdom of its leaders and the genius of its people.

"China has become a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for the people of developing countries around the world.

Pakistan rejoices in China's phenomenal success and supports its efforts for the promotion of peace and harmony in Asia and beyond," said President Asif Zardari in his message of felicitation to his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao on the auspicious occasion of China's National Day falling on October 1.

The President said, "on behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan,it gives me great pleasure to extend to Your Excellency, and the Government and people of China, our best wishes and sincere felicitations on the auspicious occasion of China's National Day."

The President said that Pakistan and China enjoy an all-weather and multifaceted friendship that has stood the test of time.

He said, our unique friendship is the embodiment of the ideals and aspirations of the great leaders who laid its foundations many years ago - Chairman Mao Zedong, Premier Zhou Enlai and Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.

Ever since, the President said, the brotherly and fraternal ties that have become the hallmark of Pakistan- China friendship, have grown from strength to strength every year.

"I am particularly pleased to note that this year - as we celebrate "Pakistan-China Friendship Year" to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries - we have added another chapter to the glorious history of our special relationship," the President said, adding, "for this the leadership and peoples of both countries are to be commended."

President Zardari said that Pakistan and China remained committed, as ever, to work together to fashion a better, more prosperous future for our children, and to ensure that they inherit a more peaceful and harmonious world.

"I avail myself of this opportunity to convey my best wishes for Your Excellency's good health and happiness and for the continued progress and prosperity of the Chinese people.

Please accept Excellency, the assurances of my highest esteem and consideration," the President said.

Copyright APP (Associated Press of Pakistan), 2011