LONDON, Aug 28 (Alliance News): Pakistan and the United Kingdom have agreed to further strengthen cooperation in counterterrorism, intelligence sharing and other areas of mutual security interest, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reached the understanding during a meeting with British National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell in London on Wednesday.
Dar, who is on a five-day official visit to the UK, highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and security and its continued diplomatic efforts to support dialogue, de-escalation and negotiated solutions.
The two sides discussed key regional and international security developments, including the situations in South Asia, the Middle East and Afghanistan, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office.
Earlier, Dar held delegation-level talks with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, during which the two sides reviewed the full range of Pakistan-UK bilateral relations.
They agreed to establish a structured mechanism for formal talks between the two foreign ministries to cover areas of cooperation and regularly review progress in key sectors.
The two ministers stressed the importance of sustained high-level engagement and closer coordination on matters of mutual interest.
They also discussed developments in the Middle East, with Dar sharing details of Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts to promote dialogue and regional stability.
Miliband appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and facilitation efforts in promoting diplomacy and stability in the region.
The discussions also covered the Indus Waters Treaty and the broader security situation in the region.
Dar highlighted what Pakistan described as India’s persistent violations of its international obligations and stressed the need to uphold international law and treaty commitments.
During his meeting with Powell, Dar also expressed serious concern over terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil and the activities of militant groups operating from Afghanistan, which Pakistan says pose a threat to its peace and security.
The two sides also recognised the role of the Pakistani diaspora in strengthening longstanding relations and people-to-people links between Pakistan and the UK.
Dar separately met UK Minister of State Stephen Doughty to discuss bilateral relations and cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The deputy prime minister welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral ties and stressed the importance of continued engagement to strengthen political, economic and institutional links between the two countries.
The two sides discussed measures to increase trade and investment, expand cooperation in emerging sectors, strengthen climate cooperation and promote cultural exchanges.
Dar highlighted the contribution of the Pakistani diaspora in the UK, describing it as an important bridge between the two countries.
Doughty appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting regional peace and stability and reaffirmed the UK’s interest in maintaining close engagement with Islamabad on bilateral and regional matters.
