National Security Advisor United Kingdom calls on Minister for Defence

Islamabad, April 02, 2014 (PPI-OT): Pakistan considers UK a close friend and development partner. Citizens across each countries act as a living bridge between two countries. Recent visit of Prime Minister David Cameron is a testimony of our strong relationship.

These frequent interactions prove beneficial in coordinating our approaches to various bilateral, regional and international issues. These views were expressed by Khawaja Asif, Minister for Defence during his important meeting with National Security Advisor of UK Sir Kim Darroch in his office in Islamabad today.

Pakistan and United Kingdom are progressing through Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD) which covers the entire spectrum of bilateral relations. Other defence forums like Defence Cooperation Forum and PAK- UK Naval Staff talks also hold great significance in cementing ties.

Sir Kim Durroch expressed hope at the reactivation Joint Working Group on Counter terrorism and stressed that relations will continue to evolve on principles of mutual trust, shared common interest and understanding each others perspective.

Khawaja Muhammad Asif highlighted the role of Pakistan as a stabilizing factor in wake of drawdown 2014. He added that Pakistan wants stable and peaceful Afghanistan which is important for the region and Pakistan in particular.

At this point he also highlighted the sacrifices rendered by the armed forces and people of Pakistan in terms of men and material. Pakistan is trying its best to play a neutral role and normalize relations with all stakeholders and neighbors in the region.

On the internal situation of the country and role of armed forces the minister said that both political leadership and armed forces are on one page on all matters. This unanimity is proving as our strength and will help bring us out of our problems.

Violence in any form is un desirable and government is privy to it. We want to give peace a chance. The meeting proved fruitful in better understanding issues of both countries and helped in formulation and charting a way forward.

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