Islamabad: The Chinese embassy in Pakistan Thursday greeted the Pakistani Muslims on the occasion of Eidul Azha, one of the main festivals in Islam.

“Wishing all Pakistan and Muslims around the world, a joyous and blessed Eid-ul-Adha! Let us cherish our strong bond of friendship and continue working together for a brighter future. #EidMubarak #ChinaPakistanFriendship,” the embassy tweeted.

Pakistanis are celebrating Eidul Azha, praying for the country’s economic recovery — a longstanding issue plaguing the nation of 250 million.

The South Asian nation faces one of its worst crises as the government struggles to revive a stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, resulting in skyrocketing inflation and a record plunge in the rupee’s value.

After Eid prayers on Thursday, men rushed to search for butchers to help them carry out the sacrifice of their animals — an obligation for those who are able to afford it.

During the festival, Muslims around the world slaughter animals — goats, sheep, bulls/cows, or camels — keeping a third part of the meat for themselves before giving a third to friends and relatives and a third to charity.

But several people were left out of this activity as the soaring prices left them unable to purchase an animal, denting their happiness.