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PR. No.263/2008

Date: 03/09/2008    

FOREIGN MINISTER QURESHI RECEIVES DAVID CAMERON

          The British Conservative Party leader, Mr. David Cameron who is on a two-day visit to Pakistan, called on the Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi today.

2.       During the meeting, views were exchanged on the Pak-UK bilateral relationship as well as on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Both sides expressed satisfaction at the existing momentum and direction of the multifaceted relationship especially in trade, development assistance and investment fields. It was underlined that the UK was Pakistan’s largest economic and development assistance partner within the EU and both countries were committed to take the relationship to new heights. The presence of around 1 million Pakistani origin British citizens made the relationship special.

3.       The Foreign Minister briefed Mr. Cameron on developments taking place in Pakistan with the advent of the democratic government. He underlined the government’s priorities particularly in the context of economic growth and development, suppressing extremism and terrorism and strengthening democratic institutions.  Mr. Cameron assured the Foreign Minister of British support on all these issues.

4.       The Foreign Minister made a case for greater market access of Pakistani products in the European Union since this would help generate greater employment and support the Government’s efforts to root out poverty and extremism. Mr. Cameron concurred with Pakistan’s position and agreed to take up this issue within the European Union.

5.       Among the regional and international issues discussed were the common fight against terrorism and extremism, Afghanistan, relations with India and nuclear non-proliferation. The Foreign Minister underlined that the democratic government was determined to carry forward its fight against terrorism and extremism, particularly since the scourge was undermining Pakistan’s own wellbeing. He underlined measures aimed at promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan and to prevent Pakistan’s territory from being used for subversion in Afghanistan.  He also apprised Mr. Cameron of the ongoing composite dialogue with India and our endeavours to resolve all outstanding issues including the Jammu & Kashmir dispute. He further underlined Pakistan’s policy on nuclear non-proliferation and to bring about a just and non-discriminatory nuclear non-proliferation regime. Mr. Cameron appreciated Pakistan’s position on these issues and assured the Foreign Minister of British understanding and support.

Islamabad
03 September 2008