The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Pakistan’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Sen. Mohammad Ishaq Dar, discussed the security situation in Afghanistan with British National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell on Thursday, as the two countries reviewed regional security and counterterrorism cooperation.
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry, Dar and Powell
exchanged views on developments in South Asia, the Middle East and Afghanistan
during Dar’s official visit to the United Kingdom.
The two sides also discussed Pakistan-UK cooperation in
counterterrorism, intelligence sharing and other security matters, the ministry
said. They agreed to maintain close consultations on regional security
developments and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual security interest.
Afghanistan was a key part of the broader regional security
discussions. Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns about militant groups
operating from Afghan territory and has sought greater action against groups it
says pose a threat to Pakistan.
During a separate meeting with British Foreign Secretary Ed
Miliband on Thursday, Dar expressed concern over what Pakistan describes as
terrorist threats emanating from Afghanistan and the activities of militant
groups operating there.
Dar also emphasized Pakistan’s role in promoting regional
peace and security and said Islamabad remains committed to diplomacy, dialogue
and efforts to reduce tensions.
The meetings come as Pakistan and the United Kingdom seek
closer cooperation on regional security issues, including terrorism and
developments in Afghanistan.
Pakistan and Britain agreed to maintain regular
consultations on regional developments and to further strengthen their security
and counterterrorism cooperation, according to Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry.
