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ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Friday said Pakistan-China comprehensive cooperation and robust partnership was in the fundamental interest of their peoples and conducive to peace, progress and stability of Asia.
“There is a complete convergence of views of our two countries on the global and regional issues and a commonality of approach to advance the international agenda for peace and prosperity,” Gilani said while speaking at a banquet he hosted in honour of the visiting State Councilor of China Dai Bingguo here at the PM House.
The prime minister termed the friendship with China as the cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy and said, “the relations between Pakistan and China go beyond governments and are deeply rooted in the hearts and minds of our peoples.”
“We rejoice with our Chinese friends on their remarkable national accomplishments. China's economic transformation, technological excellence and spirit of innovation elicit our respect and admiration,” he added.
The prime minister said China also continues to make an admirable contribution to global peace and development, adding, “It provides an excellent example of wise conduct in international affairs.”
He said Pakistan and China are close neighbours linked by common rivers and mountains.
Gilani said Pakistan supports China on all its core issues, adding, “We support One China policy and are totally committed to upholding of China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
“We also appreciate China's invaluable support for Pakistan's socio-economic development,” he added.
The prime minister said Pakistan also seeks to improve its relations with India and find a peaceful solution to all outstanding issues, adding, “in this context, we attach importance to the ongoing dialogue process with India and hope that it would be productive and result-oriented.”
He said, Pakistan has been in the forefront of the campaign against terror. “We have registered significant success and offered enormous sacrifices. We remain committed to eliminating the specter of terrorism from our region.”
Gilani said Premier Wen Jiabao's visit last December was another outstanding landmark in the all-dimensional friendship and cooperative partnership between Pakistan and China.
“I am certain that State Councillor Dai Bingguo's visit will also contribute to the further deepening and broadening of the horizons of our cooperation in all spheres,” he added.
The prime minister on this occasion also conveyed to the Chinese leadership and people warm greetings and good wishes of the people of Pakistan.
“Pakistan will remain a true and steadfast friend of the great Chinese nation. Long live Pakistan-China friendship,” he added.
