RAWALPINDI: Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto tonight [Aug 9] felicitated Mr. Gerald R. Ford on his assumption of the high office of the US President. In his congratulatory message … the Prime Minister expressed his confidence that under his resolute leadership, the traditional friendship and close co-operation between Pakistan and the United States would continue to grow and be further strengthened.

The Prime Minister’s message said: “On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan and on my own behalf, I convey to you, Mr. President, our warmest felicitations on your assumption of the high office of President. … I am confident that with your deep perception of governmental process, your vast experience of public life and your wide international outlook, you will move the Government of the United States with vigour and determination towards the realisation of the high ideals which have inspired the American people. …

“As friends and allies through vicissitudes of more than two decades, Pakistan and the United States have shared a common dedication to the promotion of peace with justice for all peoples. The people of Pakistan value and cherish this partnership.”

Published in Dawn, August 10th, 2024