BEIJING, June 19 (APP) - Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir inaugurated a Pakistan Studies Centre (PSC) at the prestigious Peking University here on Thursday.

Speaking on the occasion, he said the PSC would bring further closer the people, scholars and the academicians of the two countries and help in sharing each other's experiences in diverse fields.

Shedding light on the close bonds of friendship between Pakistan and China, Salman Bashir said that these ties "are not only special but exceptionally special at all levels."

The Foreign Secretary said he was delighted that the Pakistan Studies Centre has been established at one of the best universities of China which is also recognized as one of the finest higher learning institution around the world.

He said that all Pakistanis were happy to see the rapid economic development of China, which became possible due to wisdom of the Chinese leadership and hard work of the Chinese people.

Salman Bashir said Pakistan offers great opportunities for the Chinese tourists. "We have a number of world famous mountains, landscapes, beaches and Buddha sites for the interest of our Chinese visitors."

Earlier, the Acting Vice-President of Peking University Lion Jian Hua in his welcome address described Pakistan as "very important country" in the world.

He said that Pakistan plays an active and prominent role in regional affairs.

Lion Jian highly appreciated the efforts of Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir for his contribution towards the establishment of the PSC.

He said that Pakistan will provide $ 50,000 annually for the PSC. The PSC, he said, will play the role of a bridge in further cementing the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and China.

He expressed thanks on behalf of the Chinese Government and people for the massive relief assistance as well as medical team sent by Pakistan for the quake-hit people in Sichuan province.

Pakistan supports China's stance on Taiwan and other important issues while China supports integrity, solidarity and socio-economic development of Pakistan, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Dean of School of Foreign Language at Peking University, Cheng Zhaoxiang said they were grateful to the Government of Pakistan for conferring three awards to the scholars of his university.

Later, the Foreign Secretary inaugurated the PSC by unveiling the plaque. He also opened a photo exhibition depicting rich social and cultural heritage of Pakistan.