News
Sunday, July 21, 2013
PM wants peace with neighbours* Nawaz directs Foreign Ministry to prepare strategy for dialogue with India
* Orders pursuit of policies that strengthen relations with neighbours, advance national development goals and enhance Pakistan’s international stature
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday stressed on peace and stability in the neighbouring countries and Pakistan’s positive contribution to create such environment.
During his visit to the Foreign Office (FO) to get an in-depth briefing on foreign policy, the prime minister shared his vision and gave specific directions to deal with different areas.
He emphasised on the imperatives of promotion of trade and pursuit of economic diplomacy.
Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi also participated in the briefing.
The prime minister directed the FO to formulate a strategy for a comprehensive dialogue with India.
“Our government wants cordial relations with all neighbouring countries including Afghanistan, Iran and India,” he said.
The prime minister called for pursuing policies that strengthen Pakistan’s relations with neighbouring countries, advance national development goals and enhance the country’s international stature.
On the occasion‚ the prime minister was also briefed about the proposed visit of Adviser on Foreign Affairs and National Security Sartaj Aziz to Afghanistan.
The prime minister categorically declared his support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned method for the restoration of peace in Afghanistan. He rejected the idea of supporting any militant or political groups.
Pakistan would not support any group in Afghanistan in any way, he said, adding that Pakistan would help the Afghan government in maintenance of peace.
On other subjects, Prime Minister Nawaz directed the FO and Pakistani missions abroad to work towards promoting Pakistan’s economic interests.
During the briefing, Foreign Secretary Jalil Abbas Jilani highlighted the current regional and international environment in which Pakistan’s foreign policy is operating.
The briefing particularly focused on Pakistan’s bilateral ties with immediate neighbours as well as on other key relationships. The foreign secretary highlighted the main aspects of the major relationships and presented FO’s recommendations in this regard.
staff report/agenciesCourtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk