Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his British counterpart David Cameron on Friday agreed to continue close collaborations in many fields, particularly trade, investment and security.
The two leaders, who met on the sidelines of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the Maltese capital, expressed long-term commitment to work together for the greater security and prosperity of their countries.
Both prime ministers reaffirmed their commitment to work to countering shared threats of terrorism, organised crime and illegal migration.
Sharif said that Pakistan considers United Kingdom a close friend and a trusted partner and mentioned that bilateral relations were based on sound footing and strong Diaspora linkages.
He expressed satisfaction over the Pak-UK cooperation in the realm of Enhanced Strategic Dialogue and said that the relations had been strengthened because of trade, investment, culture, education and security.
Sharif said Pakistan condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and was deeply saddened by the recent terrorist attacks in Paris. He said Pakistan itself being victim of terrorism could feel the pain of the French people.
Prime Minister Sharif said that Pakistan was taking stringent measures to eliminate terrorism and extremism under its National Action Plan. He mentioned that Operation Zarb-e-Azb was nearing its successful completion after targeting terrorists on Pakistani soil.
He appreciated the continued support from Britain for the development of Pakistan’s social sectors, particularly education, and mentioned in particular the assistance provided by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID).
Sharif said Pakistan intends to maintain friendly relations with all its neighbours, including India and Afghanistan.
Cameron welcomed signs of growth in Pakistan’s economy. He expressed UK’s all-out support for Pakistan in its pursuit for a strong economy and achieving socio-economic development.
He lauded Pakistan’s efforts for the eradication of militancy and extremism.
Both leaders shared their views on the importance of Commonwealth and on the need to seek common benefits for all member states.
They also exchanged views on issues of global and regional importance, including the security situation in the Middle East.
This was the third time that the two prime ministers met during the current year, with earlier meetings taking place in April and September.
PM’s Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry and Pakistan’s Ambassador in Malta resident in Tunisia Zaheer Pervaiz Khan were present.
