PM directs FO to chalk out strategy for dialogue with India

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday directed the Foreign Office (FO) to formulate a strategy for a comprehensive dialogue with India.

In his address, the prime minister said prosperity of the public and promotion of cordial relations with neighbours were part of the PML-N government’s priorities.

“Our government wants cordial relations with all neighbouring countries including Afghanistan, Iran and India,” Nawaz said.

The prime minister said the FO, along with the Pakistani embassies abroad, should work for promoting Pakistan’s economic interests.

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz, Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal and other party leaders accompanied Nawaz to his visit to the Foreign Office.

The prime minister was briefed on foreign affairs, regional situations and relations with neighbouring countries.

During the briefing, Foreign Secretary Jalil Abbas Jilani highlighted the current regional and international environment in which Pakistan’s foreign policy was operating. He noted the positive international reaction to the successful democratic transition in Pakistan and the optimism generated since the installation of the new government for qualitative improvement in relations with a broad range of countries.

The briefing particularly focused on Pakistan’s bilateral ties with immediate neighbours as well as on other key relationships. The foreign secretary also highlighted the main aspects of the major relationships and presented the FO’s recommendations.