Pak-UK strategic consultations continue as British Defence Secretary visits Pakistan

 

High-level consultations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom continue as British Defence Secretary Des Browne, on his first visit to Pakistan after a new government took over in Islamabad, conveyed his government's support to Pakistan.

 

In his talks with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in Islamabad on 26 May, British Defence Secretary Browne acknowledged Pakistan’s positive contribution towards reconstruction, peace and stability in Afghanistan and in the region.

 

During the visit Browne held discussions on bilateral relations, regional and international issues of common interest and the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

 

Browne acknowledged Pakistan's positive contribution towards reconstruction, and peace and stability in Afghanistan and in the region.

 

This was third high-level visit from the United Kingdom, after two earlier visits of Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary, aimed at establishing contact with the new Government in Islamabad.

 

Foreign Minister Qureshi conveyed appreciation of the Government of Pakistan for the role played by the United Kingdom towards restoration of Pakistan’s membership to the Councils of Commonwealth. He also appreciated Britain’s support for Pakistan’s economic development and security.

 

The Foreign Minister also briefed him on the ongoing political process and the Government’s comprehensive and multi- pronged approach towards addressing the issues of extremism and terrorism

 

During his visit, Des Browne also called on his counterpart, Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar. According to a statement issued by the British High Commission in Islamabad, Browne, during the meeting, said Britain supported the new Government’s initiative to achieve peace in the Tribal Areas through dialogue. “The UK supports the agreement and the process of reconciliation with the insurgents as initiated by the Government of Pakistan,” Defence Ministry officials quoted him as saying. He also admired Pakistan’s key role in combating the menace of extremism.

Defence Minister Ch Mukhtar, highlighted counter-terrorism measures taken by Pakistan, saying that the country was committed to fighting and eliminating the twin menaces of terrorism and extremism. He said the security forces of Pakistan were actively engaged in preventing cross-border infiltration along the border with Afghanistan. He said Pakistan was endeavouring to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan, because a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was in the best interest of the whole region.

 

Secretary Browne also held talks with General Tariq Majid, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) at Joint Staff Headquarters and exchanged views on matters relating to mutual interest and enhancement of bilateral defence cooperation between the two countries.

 

The CJCSC expressed satisfaction on expanding military ties and excellent cooperation sequel to the formation of Pakistan-UK Defence Cooperation Forum (DCF) which has been meeting regularly.

 

While discussing the regional security situation with specific focus on fight against terrorism and recent developments in Afghanistan and tribal areas of Pakistan, CJCSC emphasized on the need for a holistic and comprehensive approach to attain the ultimate objective of peace.

 

General Tariq appreciated the assistance being rendered by Britain in capacity building of law enforcement agencies through security development plan and cooperation with Pakistan’s armed forces through defence related activity programme.

 

He also lauded Britain’s contribution to bringing stability in Afghanistan, as “a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is in Pakistan’s national interest.”

 

Following his meetings, Browne attended a dinner at the Pakistan Air Force Officers’ mess in Islamabad, which was held in his honour by the Defence Minister Ch Mukhtar.

 

According to a statement released by the British High Commission in Islamabad, following his talks with Pakistani officials, Browne said: “Pakistan and Afghanistan share common problems and I am encouraged by both countries’ commitment to work together, with the international community’s support, towards tackling them.”

According to the statement, Defence Secretary Browne said: “The UK is committed to doubling development spending in Pakistan to almost $1 billion over the next three years, and we are prioritising good governance, growth and the delivery of basic services.”

Courtesy: APP, MoFA, Int’l news sources
26 May 2008