ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and United Kingdom on Thursday re-confirmed their commitment to tackle shared challenge of terrorism and extremism which is in the interest of both nations 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 have made tremendous sacrifices in striving for a more stable region and a world free from this menace,” Minister for Interior, Senator Rehman Malik and UK Home Secretary, Theresa May said this while addressing a joint press conference after holding a bilateral consultation.
They said our intensive diplomatic efforts, bilaterally, multilaterally, and in concert with key partners, are complemented by a growing programme of counter-terrorism liaison.
This includes UK’s support to 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 their 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 visit in April this year allows 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 reflects the longstanding ties between the people of Pakistan and UK.
Rehman Malik said Pakistan is victim of terrorism and it has sacrificed precious lives of more than 36,000 people and financial loss of US $ 62 billion in the war against terrorism and extremism.
He said Pakistan has been fighting against terrorism not only for peace in its own country but for the entire world and to make the world terrorism free.
Appreciating the cooperation of UK in different fields, the Minister said he has asked the British Home Secretary to help Pakistan in Victim Support Programme not only for victims of terrorism but also for the victims of domestic violence.
He said both sides also agreed ways to monitor new initiatives through a new senior official led Migration Joint Working Group which will meet on an annual basis to discuss the full migration agenda.
The group will bring experts from the United Kingdom and Pakistan together to discuss all issues relating to migration focusing on visa operations, illegal migration, human trafficking, border control and migration policy, he added.
Rehman Malik said both sides also confirmed the value of shared efforts to protect the safety of passengers flying between the UK and Pakistan.
The UK is committed to helping Pakistan meet the new EU aviation security regulations which will be implemented next year.
He said the UK is already gifting 18 explosive trace detectors to Pakistan and will look to extend that assistance in the near future.
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