ISLAMABAD, May 27: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari congratulated Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Sunday on achieving the coveted status of being the longest serving elected prime minister of the country.

Prime Minister Gilani, who is also vice chairman of the PPP, has exceeded the tenure of Liaquat Ali Khan, who served as premier for four years, two months and one day.

Mr Gilani was elected to the office of prime minister on March 25, 2008.

The chairman and co-chairman in their separate messages attributed the achievement to the leadership of the PPP and the policy of reconciliation given by Benazir Bhutto.

They appreciated the commitment, courage and wisdom of Prime Minister Gilani for creating a balance among the state institutions. They said the country had now been set on a trajectory to democracy and smooth transition in line with the Constitution for the first time in its history.

The two leaders paid rich tribute to the prime minister also for establishing the supremacy of parliament and lauded him for attending all sessions of the parliament, holding of maximum number of cabinet meetings and record legislation, especially on women empowerment and human rights.

They particularly mentioned the unanimous passage of amendments leading to the restoration of 1973 Constitution that was mutilated by dictators.

The PPP chairman and co-chairman were also appreciative of the self-autonomy given to Gilgit-Baltistan, Aghaz-i-Huqooq-i-Balochistan and the historic 7th National Finance Commission Award.—APP