A relationship of hearts and minds: As the nation prepares to welcome our close friend and trusted neighbour from across the mighty Himalayas, Karakorum and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, let me affirm that ever since the two countries established their diplomatic relations in 1951, Pakistan-China bilateral relations have been unwavering, vibrant and impervious to internal political changes in either country, or variations in external environment.
China has been a pillar of strength to us during our most difficult times. A true friend, China has always been forthcoming and generous in supporting Pakistan, bilaterally, regionally and in international forums.
Pakistan too, has been a source of crucial diplomatic support to China, serving as a bridge for her to open up to the West. Pakistan also played a key role in helping China regain its permanent seat at the UN Security Council and in facilitating China's rapprochement with the United States.
It is therefore, but natural that relations with China should represent the fulcrum of Pakistan's foreign policy that has successfully emerged as a model of good neighbourly relations for others to emulate.
President Xi Jinping's choice of Pakistan as the destination of his first official visit in 2015, underscores the importance that China attaches to Pakistan and reflects my own decision to choose China as my first official visit, weeks after assuming office in 2013.
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