Beijing : Pakistan has taken China as "its best, time-tested and all-weather friend," Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani said here Friday.
"China and Pakistan have always been very good friends," Gilani said during an exclusive interview with Xinhuanet, Chinese news agency.
He added that China and Pakistan have carried out cooperation both at the regional and international levels, and the frequent exchange of high-level visits could further enhance the bilateral relationship.
Taking Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's state visit to Pakistan last year as an example, Gilani said it "was extremely welcomed and the people of Pakistan have the highest level of regards for China."
When asked about the magic between the two countries' all-weather relations, Gilani referred to the historical bonds from the ancient civilizations.
He said even in the days of Prophet Mohammed, the Pakistani people "had a lot of respect for the knowledge and wisdom of the people of China."
Prime Minister noted that whatever the conditions are, whether nationally or internationally, the two countries focused on and protected each other's core interests.
Gilani said China was the first country to make an open statement to show its respect for Pakistan's sacrifices for and contribution to the war against terrorism after Osama bin Laden was killed in the northern Pakistani city of Abbottabad.
He said that this demonstrated the friendship between the two countries and that the Pakistani people were grateful for the leadership and people of China.This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan, and is also the China-Pakistan Friendship Year. Gilani's official four-day visit to China ispart of a series of celebration activities. PPI
