News
Friday, November 25, 2011
Pakistan, UK pledge to fight terror jointly* Malik says Pakistan fighting to rid world of terrorism
* May hails Pakistan’s zero-tolerance approach towards illegal immigration
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Kingdom on Thursday re-confirmed their commitment to tackle the shared challenge of terrorism and extremism to sustain a broad-based strategic relationship.
“We share a powerful interest in fighting the extremism and terrorism that threatens people in both countries. Pakistan is on the front line and has made tremendous sacrifices in striving for a more stable region and a world free from this menace,” Minister for Interior Rehman Malik and UK Home Secretary Theresa May said while addressing a joint press conference after holding a bilateral consultation.
They said that their intensive diplomatic efforts, bilaterally, multilaterally, and in concert with key partners, were complemented by a growing programme of counter-terrorism liaisons. This included UK’s support to the military and policing and supporting the development of strong institutions and machinery of government.
The two ministers stressed the commitment of Pakistan and the UK in cooperating on shared interests, including trade, economic stability and development, cultural cooperation, security, tackling illegal immigration and education.
The enhanced dialogue launched during the UK Prime Minister David Cameron’s visit in April this year allowed both countries to explore areas of mutual interest in a spirit of understanding, confidence and respect. The breadth and depth of the enhanced strategic dialogue reflected the longstanding ties between the people of Pakistan and UK.
Rehman Malik said that Pakistan was a victim of terrorism and that it had lost more than 36,000 people and had also experienced a financial loss of $62 billion in the war against extremism.
He stated that Pakistan had been fighting against terrorism not only for peace in its own country, but for the entire world and to free the world of terrorism. Appreciating the cooperation of the UK in different fields, the minister said that he had asked the British home secretary to help Pakistan in the Victim Support Programme not only for the victims of terrorism, but also for the victims of domestic violence. app
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk