Pyongyang, December 22 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un, vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea, Wednesday received a message of condolences from Asif Ali Zardari, president of Pakistan.

The message said:

We were deeply saddened on the passing away of His Excellency Kim Jong Il, great leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

The late Kim Jong Il commanded immense respect and will no doubt be deeply missed by the people of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, please accept, Excellency, our heartfelt condolences.