27/07/2008
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Pakistan, Britain agree to cooperate against terror
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Tribesmen won’t welcome allied forces in their territories
BIRMINGHAM: Pakistan and United Kingdom share a common interest in tackling extremism and terrorism through economic and social development and uplift of the tribal areas.
This was declared by foreign ministers of the two countries during a joint press conference following a meeting with members of the British Muslim community on Friday evening.would not be improved after the arrival of allied forces, in fact their own security would be in danger.
He said Pakistan did not receive any positive response from Afghanistan on its suggestion to counter terrorism, adding allied forces can perform their responsibilities in a better way on Afghan border. -Agencies
British Foreign Minister David Miliband affirmed his government's support for Pakistan's multi-pronged strategy to deal with the issue. "We stand united in our determination against the danger posed by terrorism not only to UK but also to Pakistan," said Miliband.
He said, "We need to make sure that we work bilaterally as well as to recognise that we share interests within the borders of Afghanistan and outside."
He also reiterated UK's support for democracy in Pakistan, saying his country backed up its support not only with political statement but with a very large economic package.
Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, meanwhile, stated that Pakistan required international support and assistance to deal with the menace of extremism and terrorism.
He said the objective is to wean away those with extremist tendencies through talks and though uplift of the under-developed areas. He also stated that the Pakistani government was not talking with the militants but with tribal elders and elected representatives of Fata. Later, talking to a British TV foreign minister Qureshi said there is no need of allied forces' action in tribal areas as Pakistani people would never welcome them there. He said Pakistani forces have the capability to counter the militants and the situation
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