Pakistan, UK agree to further boost counterterrorism cooperation

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and British National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell on Wednesday agreed to further strengthen Pakistan–UK cooperation in counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and other areas of mutual security interest.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the DPM, who is on a five-day official visit to the UK, held separate meetings with the country’s leadership in London today.

During his meeting with Powell, the DPM highlighted Pakistan’s important role in promoting regional peace and security and underscored its sustained diplomatic engagement in support of dialogue, de-escalation and negotiated outcomes.

“The two sides exchanged views on key regional and international security developments, including the situations in South Asia, the Middle East and Afghanistan,” read the statement.

Earlier in the day, the DPM held delegation-level talks with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband.

The two sides reviewed the full spectrum of Pakistan-United Kingdom bilateral relations and agreed to establish a structured mechanism for formal talks between the two foreign ministries to cover all areas of cooperation to further strengthen bilateral ties and regularly review progress in key areas.

They underscored the importance of sustained high-level engagement and closer coordination on matters of mutual interest, read the statement.

The two ministers exchanged views on key regional and international developments, including the evolving situation in the Middle East.

DMP Dar shared Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts in the region and the progress achieved through these engagements.

Foreign Secretary Miliband appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and facilitation efforts in promoting dialogue, diplomacy and stability in the Mideast.

Discussions also focused on developments concerning the Indus Waters Treaty and the security situation in the region.

The DPM highlighted India’s persistent violations of its international obligations and stressed the importance of upholding international law and treaty commitments.

Dar expressed serious concern about the terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil, and the threat posed by terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan to Pakistan’s peace and security.

They recognised the important role of the Pakistani diaspora in further strengthening the longstanding ties and people-to-people links between Pakistan and the UK.

Meanwhile, the DPM met UK Minister of State Stephen Doughty to discuss Pakistan-UK bilateral relations and cooperation in key areas of mutual interest.

The DPM welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral ties and stressed the importance of sustained engagement to further strengthen political, economic and institutional linkages between the two countries.

The two sides discussed ways to enhance trade and investment, expand cooperation in emerging sectors, strengthen climate cooperation and promote cultural exchanges.

DPM Dar highlighted the important contribution of the Pakistani diaspora in the UK, describing it as a vital bridge between the two countries.

UK Minister of State Stephen Doughty appreciated Pakistan’s important role in promoting regional peace and stability and reaffirmed the UK’s interest in maintaining close engagement with Pakistan on bilateral and regional issues.