Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on his election as President of Bangladesh.

In a press statement issued by the Pakistan High Commission, Asif expressed confidence that, under his leadership, Bangladesh would continue to make progress and advance the well-being of its people.

The President said Pakistan and Bangladesh shared close bonds rooted in their common history, faith and cultural ties. He welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral relations and expressed hope that cooperation between the two countries would continue to expand in areas of mutual interest.

He said he looked forward to working with Fakhrul to further strengthen Pakistan-Bangladesh relations and promote greater exchanges and cooperation between the two peoples.

The Pakistani president also invited his Bangladeshi counterpart to visit Pakistan at a mutually convenient time, expressing confidence that such a visit would provide an opportunity to further strengthen bilateral ties and deepen cooperation.

Asif conveyed his best wishes to Fakhrul for the successful discharge of his responsibilities and for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Bangladesh. 

Fakhrul will be sworn in as the 23rd President of Bangladesh at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban at 7:30pm.

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad will administer the oath of the office of the President, according to Bangabhaban.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, cabinet members, and hundreds of distinguished guests are expected to attend the event.