Pakistan's Prime Minister Sayed Reza Jilani today announced his country's official recognition of the Republic of South Sudan as an independent state. The News Agency of Pakistan said Jilani has sent a message to the President of South Sudan Silva Kiir announcing his country's official recognition of the newly-born state and conveying the congratulations of the government and people of Pakistan on the birth of the new country. Jilani also confirmed the keenness of Pakistan to establish friendly ties with the Republic of South Sudan, wishing its people stability, peace and prosperity.