We are of the firm view that China's interest and participation in rebuilding infrastructure in Afghanistan and support for the reconciliation process in that country will greatly enhance the chances of success in our common goals of peace and development.

The understanding reached between China and Pakistan during President Xi's visit for further strengthening economic and defense ties between the two countries and the resolve to maintain continued dialogue and consultations on further reinforcing the strategic cooperation are a source of great encouragement for Pakistan. Equally inspiring for us is the Chinese endorsement of our quest in regard to mainstreaming our efforts for the cause of non-proliferation, engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group and the bid for full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Our unanimous views on activating and strengthening regional and international mechanisms for peace and security, reforms in the United Nations in recognition of the interests of the member countries and the establishment of a judicious world order provide a nourishing ingredient to the tree of friendship between the two countries. The stability and economic prosperity of Asia, stretching from the plains of the Caucasus to the shores of the Arabian Sea and the Pacific Ocean, to a great extent, are dependent on strong and vibrant ties between Pakistan and China.

President Xi has inspired not only the people of China, but also those of the entire developing world with his visionary enunciation of the "Chinese Dream of National Rejuvenation". We share this vision of peace and prosperity for the region and welcome his emphasis on engaging with China's neighboring countries in a spirit of win-win cooperation. This is why we are fully supportive of the Chinese president's concept of "New Asian Security".

Pakistan feels that China's initiative to set up the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is really a positive step toward realization of that concept. Infrastructure is the most important ingredient in kick-starting the process of sustained economic growth in any country. Most of the Asian countries do not have the basic infrastructure to further their economic ambitions and they also lack the necessary resources to develop it.

The AIIB will greatly contribute to making available resources for infrastructure development on less stringent conditions than the other international lending institutions. It will encourage healthy competition among the lending financial institutions, and the borrowing countries will be in a better bargaining position to secure the required loans. Pakistan views this effort on the part of China as an important step toward the creation of regional linkages, economic interdependence and eventually economic integration of Asian countries which could prove to be a harbinger of peace for the entire continent.

Relations with China are the cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy. They have withstood the vicissitudes of time and have continued to maintain an upward graph since their inception in 1951. China has contributed in a big way to nudging economic progress in Pakistan, rendered invaluable support and assistance to enhance Pakistan's defense capabilities, and extended unqualified support on issues of concern to it. Pakistan has also been instrumental in ending China's isolation, rapprochement with the United States and facilitating its permanent seat in the UN Security Council. It has been an ardent supporter of the "One China Policy" (concerning both sides of the Taiwan Straits).

The ties between the two countries are beyond the realm of normal diplomatic relations. The hallmark of the bonds between the two countries is that it is a people-to-people bonhomie; a relationship of hearts and minds. The characterization of Pakistan as "Iron Friend" by President Xi says it all. The feeling is mutual.

The author is prime minister of Pakistan.

(China Daily 05/30/2015 page5)