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PR. No.168/2008

Date: 12/06/2008   

FOREIGN MINISTER MAKHDOOM SHAH MAHMOOD QURESHI MEETS SECRETARY GENERAL NATO

Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi met the Secretary General of NATO, Mr Jaap de Hoop Scheffer on the sidelines of International Conference in Support of Afghanistan in Paris .

Foreign Minister and the Secretary General NATO discussed the situation in Afghanistan and close cooperation between Pakistan and NATO in the war against terrorism.

Foreign Minister stated that Pakistan and NATO share the objective of enhancing regional and global peace. They are also partners in supporting peace and stability in Afghanistan . He appreciated NATO's strong support to Pakistan in the wake of the tragic earthquake in October 2005 when a larger number of NATO personnel contributed to relief efforts in the affected areas.

The Foreign Minster conveyed the strong reaction voiced in the Parliament and the sentiments of the people of Pakistan on the unprovoked and senseless attack on a Pakistani post in Mahmond Agency by the coalition forces. The attack is a blatant and willful negation of the sacrifices Pakistan has made in the war against terrorism.

The NATO Secretary General lauded Pakistan 's contribution in the war against terror. He underscored that in this war Pakistan is a pert of the solution and this fact is always acknowledged by NATO.

The Secretary General said the incident in Mahmond Agency was truly regrettable and an inquiry is being held in this serious incident.

Islamabad

12 June 2008