PR. No.198/2007

Date: 26/07/2007

BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY VISIT TO PAKISTAN

British Foreign Secretary David Miliband who is paying his first ever visit to Pakistan after taking office, called on the President today. The British Foreign Secretary had visited Afghanistan before arriving in Islamabad and he shared his views with the President on the situation in Afghanistan . He affirmed that the British and multinational coalition in Afghanistan had a long term engagement to help the country stabilize and progress. The President informed the British Foreign Secretary about the efforts of Pakistan to ensure that our territory is not used for acts of violence and terrorism inside Afghanistan and to promote stability and development in that country.

The President and the British Foreign Secretary expressed satisfaction at the bilateral cooperation between the two countries and emphasized the need for further expansion of trade and investment activity. Referring to economic growth and increased investments achieved in the recent years in Pakistan , the President stated that socio-economic development remained the major challenge and continued progress in that direction would also ensure success of our efforts to eliminating terrorism and extremism.

The British Foreign Secretary emphasized Britain 's commitment to lend its support to Pakistan 's efforts in addressing the challenges it faced as Pakistan was an important ally and friend.

Islamabad

26 July 2007