GILGIT: Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto said here today [Sept 23] that friendship between Pakistan and China would go from strength to strength for greater co-operation not only ... for peace and prosperity but also for regional and world peace. He was speaking at a grand colourful reception arranged for him by the Chinese road builders and workers at Danyore. … The Chinese workers chanted Pakistan-China friendship slogans and sang friendship songs to the beat of drums and playing of other musical instruments.

Red banners with inscriptions: Long Live Pak-China Friendship and welcome to Prime Minister of Pakistan Z.A. Bhutto, both in Urdu and Chinese, hung on the route which was lined on both sides by cheering and singing Chinese workers. … Mr Bhutto expressed Pakistan’s gratefulness for Chinese efforts in building the gigantic highway. … When the road is complete … it would be a great contribution to permanent friendship. …

When the host offered eatables to the Prime Minister he said: “Sorry I am fasting. You can offer to those who are not.” The Chinese had brought various eatables ... from their country.

Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2024