Islamabad, Feb 11 (IANS): The Pakistan Senate has unanimously passed a resolution expressing solidarity with and support for China in combating the deadly novel coronavirus, it was reported on Tuesday.

The resolution, read out on Monday by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Mushahid Hussain, stated that the upper house acclaims the strong leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping who is leading a very successful operation to combat the virus, reports Dawn news.

"The Senate expresses its appreciation to the government of China for treating Pakistani citizens, especially students in Wuhan just like their own citizens, providing them with protection and comfort. The Senate extends full cooperation to (their) Chinese brethren in this difficult moment of the coronavirus crisis," it states.

Pakistan's Senate is the first Parliament in the world to express such solidarity and support to China.

The Senate resolution lauded the government and people of China for combating the epidemic with dedication, commitment and courage.

As of Tuesday morning, the death toll in China due to the coronavirus has reached 1,016, with 42,638 confirmed cases.

Only two deaths have been reported outside of China in Hong Kong and the Philippines.

There were no reports of any case in Pakistan. In South Asia, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka have reported cases.