ISLAMABAD - Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday lauded China's vital role in Pakistan's socio-economic and defense development as the two countries marked the 74th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

In a statement issued by the media wing of the President's Secretariat, Zardari congratulated the governments and people of both nations, calling the Pakistan-China relationship "historic and time-tested," and reaffirmed that it remains a cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy.

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Extending best wishes to the leadership and people of China on the anniversary, Zardari added that bilateral ties had evolved over the past 74 years into an all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, describing the two countries as "iron brothers".

"Pakistan is a staunch supporter of the one-China policy and will continue to stand firmly with China on its core national interests," the president said.

Zardari deeply appreciated China's consistent support to Pakistan in times of need. He cited the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a flagship project of bilateral cooperation that has significantly improved Pakistan's economy and connectivity.

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The president also emphasized that Pakistan-China relations are grounded in mutual trust, respect, and goodwill, and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to further deepen cooperation in the fields of economy, technology, defense, education, and trade.