LONDON: President Asif Ali Zardari and the British Prime Minister
David Cameron Friday pledged that both Pakistan and the UK would
continue to work together to fight militancy and promote peace in the
region.
The two leaders at their meeting at the Downing Street
welcomed the ongoing collaboration between the UK and Pakistani
governments to tackle violent extremism and radicalization and agreed
to enhance cooperation in support of a comprehensive approach by the
Government of Pakistan.The meeting was also attended by Chairman
Pakistan People’s Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Prime Minister Cameron
warmly received the Pakistani leader on his arrival at the Downing
Street and shook hands warmly outside the famous number 10 door.
Briefing
the media, Farhatullah Babar, Spokesperson to the President said that
Pakistan and United Kingdom agreed to prepare a comprehensive plan of
action to intensify cooperation in trade and business, defence,
development, education, health, security and cultural cooperation.
Both
the leaders in their discussion had consensual view that terrorism was
the enemy of both Pakistan and Britain and that the two countries
should continue to work together to fight the menace.
President
Zardari said that said UK has always supported democracy and he was
confident that Britain will continue to support democracy and
democratic institutions.
Pakistan appreciated consistent
support of the UK for democracy, adding that Britain has a better
understanding of the sub-continent than any other country and was well
placed to put across Pakistani, point of view before the world.
Commenting
on Pak-Afghan relationship President Zardari said that the destinies of
Pakistan and Afghanistan were inter-twined and both the countries face
common challenges and threats. He said that the two countries needed to
join hands to overcome the challenges facing them. Terming
Pakistan-Afghanistan partnership a key to peace and development of the
two countries the President said that it was important for increased
connectivity within the region as well as with the outside world.
President
Zardari said that Pakistan is endeavouring for regional peace and
stability and dialogue process have started with all the neighbouring
countries including India.
Recently, Foreign Secretaries of
both the countries exchanged views on the issue of Jammu & Kashmir
and agreed to continue discussions in a purposeful and forward looking
manner with a view to finding a peaceful solution by narrowing
divergences and building convergences. President Zardari appreciated
the role played by Britain in seeking trade package for Pakistan from
European Union. Pakistan wants to start negotiations for free trade
agreement with EU.
British Prime Minister Cameron assured that
his country would continue to extend support to Pakistan for greater
market access within the context of overall package from EU and GSP
Plus as well. He also assured that United Kingdom would also support
Pakistan’s efforts for institutionalization of Pakistan-EU summit
mechanism.
The Prime Minister said that as frontline state,
Pakistan has rendered more sacrifices in fighting terrorism than any
other country of the planet. UK stands with Pakistan to combat the
menace, he said.
He further said that Britain is committed to
increase ‘mutual cooperation through national security dialogue.’ He
said Pakistan has very important and responsible role to play in
promoting Afghan-led reconciliation and peace efforts in Afghanistan.
British
Prime Minister said that UK’s four year education programme for
Pakistan would help get more than four million children into school and
help recruit and train 90,000 teachers. Online
