TEHRAN, March 10 (Xinhua) -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi on Sunday congratulated Asif Ali Zardari on his election as the new president of Pakistan.
Raisi extended his felicitation in a message, expressing hope that bilateral ties would further develop and deepen during the new Pakistani president's term, according to a statement published on the website of his office.
The Iranian president pointed to the two countries' historical, cultural and religious commonalities, describing Pakistan as a friendly and brotherly nation.
Raisi stressed that Iran, as always, was ready to expand its relations with Pakistan, especially during the new Pakistani administration's term.
Ruling coalition candidate Asif Ali Zardari won the presidential election of Pakistan with an overwhelming lead on Saturday. Zardari, 68, will replace outgoing President Arif Alvi, who had already received a farewell guard of honor on Friday. ■
