Pakistan, Britain vow to continue collaboration in diverse fields

VALLETTA (Web Desk) - Pakistan and Britain have agreed to continue close collaboration in diverse fields particularly trade, investment and security.

An understanding to this effect was reached during a meeting between Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his British counterpart David Cameron in Malta on the sidelines of Commonwealth summit.

The two leaders expressed long-term commitment to work together for greater security and prosperity of their countries.

They reaffirmed to work in partnership countering the shared threats of terrorism, organized crime and illegal migration.

Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan considers United Kingdom a close friend and a trusted partner and mentioned that bilateral relations were based on sound footing and strong Diaspora linkages.

He expressed satisfaction over the Pak-UK cooperation in the realm of Enhanced Strategic Dialogue. He appreciated the continued support by Britain for the uplift of Pakistan's social sectors particularly education.

Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan intends to maintain friendly relations with all its neighbors including India and Afghanistan.

Cameron welcomed the signs of growth in Pakistan's economy in result of its GSP Plus trading agreement with the European Union.

He expressed the UK's all-out support for Pakistan in its pursuit for a strong economy and achieving socio-economic development. He lauded Pakistan's efforts in eradication of militancy and extremism.

Both leaders shared views on the importance of Commonwealth and on the need for seeking the common good and benefits for all member states.

They also exchanged views on issues of global and regional importance, including the security situation in Middle East.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has said Pakistan is committed to the Charter of Commonwealth for promotion of global peace, international cooperation and development of democratic societies.

He said this in a meeting with Prince of Wales, Charles Phillips in Valletta at the sidelines of 24th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The Prime Minister said Pakistan values its historic ties with the Commonwealth and believe in close cooperation among the member countries to achieve common goals of prosperity.

Prince Charles commended Pakistan's valuable contribution to the Commonwealth and also acknowledged the role of civil society in supporting its shared goals on human rights, rule of law and governance.

Addressing Commonwealth summit on Climate Change in Valletta Prime Minister said climate change poses a serious threat to human life in the world.

He informed that Pakistan experienced mighty floods in 2010 and 2011.

He called for providing of latest technology and other resources for the implementing of decisions of the conference in letter and spirit.