President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan's "iron ties" with China in their greetings to the Chinese people on Chinese New Year.
President Zardari, in a letter to his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, "reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the ironclad friendship between the two countries, saying that he is looking forward to meeting President Xi Jinping in Beijing to exchange views on further strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing the bonds of friendship", Radio Pakistan reported.
The president said Pakistan would continue to remain firmly committed to the One China policy, emphasising that "this is the cornerstone of our foreign policy".
In a prerecorded speech to felicitate the president and the Chinese people, PM Shehbaz said, "This iron brotherhood continues to be a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy, reflecting the deep respect and admiration our nations hold for each other."
"For us in Pakistan, China's success story serves as a beacon of inspiration and confidence," the prime minister continued.
He added: "Pakistan and China share an enduring bond of friendship, a relationship that has been nurtured from generation to generation, a relationship that has been nurtured from generation to generation, our gross friendly ties, rooted in mutual trust and shared aspirations, have now transformed into a comprehensive strategic partnership."
Shehbaz said the Chinese New Year "signifies renewal, transformation and the promise of new beginnings". He noted that families and friends gather to share traditional meals, exchange gifts and invite blessings.
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