United Kingdom pledges enduring friendship with Pakistan

Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has said that his visit would help to enhance political and cultural ties with United Kingdom, which pledged enduring friendship with Pakistan and building deeper stronger relationships.

While speaking to the media, the Prime Minister said that Pakistan and the United Kingdom have numerous common values, adding that the duo states have tuneful ties in many walks of life.

Without mentioning the names of opposition members and critics, Gilani said that he visited London on the invitation of British Prime Minister David Cameron to strengthen the bilateral ties.

Earlier, Gilani hold a meeting with David Cameron, reviewing the progress made under the Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD) between the two countries. The British premier categorically stated that the UK will be an enduring friend of Pakistan, vowing to build a deeper and stronger relationship.

Pakistan and UK also vowed to enhance bilateral trade up to £2.5 billion by 2015 as part of a jointly-owned venture.

A joint statement reads, “Both countries are committed to working together as equals to create conditions for greater prosperity and security in Pakistan and the UK”.

The statement asserted that it was a crucial time for Pakistan and the currently government was the longest-serving civilian government in the shortest history of the country. Besides reviewing the progress being made since the two leaders pledged in April 2011 in Islamabad, they discussed economic growth and development, trade and cultural co-operation.

The British Prime Minister vowed his support for a return to international cricket being played in Pakistan, offering to share the UK’s experience in protecting large sporting events.

In the meantime, Gilani briefed Cameron on the recommendations approved by parliament regarding new terms of engagement with the US as well as the ongoing Pakistan-India peace process.

The two leaders urged British companies to look at the opportunities Pakistani markets present and build on the success of the over 100 UK-based companies already engaged in business with Pakistan.

The Pakistani premier assured his government’s full support in ensuring an enabling business environment to attract and sustain UK trade with, and investment in, Pakistan.

Short URL: https://www.newspakistan.pk/?p=22032

Posted by Faisal Farooq on May 11 2012. Filed under Latest News, National, Pakistan. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.