ISLAMABAD, Oct 13 (APP): The British Permanent Under Secretary for Foreign Affairs Sir Peter Ricketts and Permanent Under Secretary Home Office Sir David Normington called on President Asif Ali Zardari here on Monday. During the meeting, bilateral relations between Pakistan and United Kingdom were briefly reviewed. It was underlined that the one million people of Pakistani origin in Britain constituted a special bond between the two countries.
The President briefed the visiting delegation on government’s internal priorities, the state of the economy and the fight against extremism and terrorism.
The President highlighted Pakistan’s multi-dimensional approach in dealing with the scourge of terrorism, which had been acknowledged all around. In this regard the international community, particularly Pakistan’s friends, needed to show greater understanding and support for its position.
The British Permanent Under Secretary appreciated Pakistan’s commendable role in this regard and expressed the UK Government’s firm commitment to enable Pakistan overcome this challenge.
The President also underlined the government’s determination to overcome the present economic challenges which had come about as a result of the international economic situation. The British side expressed understanding of Pakistan’s situation and committed to extend support as part of the Friends of Pakistan Group.
