ISLAMABAD, June 15: Pakistan-China bus service will open new vistas of development between the two countries, and help enhance activities in the spheres of tourism, trade and culture to usher in prosperity in the region.

This was stated by Minister of State for Communications Shahid Jamil Qureshi in a statement issued on the commencement of Gilgit-Kashghar bus service, on Thursday.

He said, although, the relations between the two nations were centuries old, border trade had brought them closer. Their friendship is time tested, and China has always extended unconditional support to Pakistan in the hour of need, he added.

He said Gilgit had acquired the status of gateway to Central Asia after Pakistan-China barter trade agreement and accords with Central Asian States.

The establishment of Sost Dry Port has also multiplied border trade between the two countries, he maintained.

The minister said gas pipeline and railway track projects were going to be started soon between the two countries.