Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Tuesday urged increased trade and market access for Pakistani products into the European markets to stabilise country's economy and address issues of poverty and unemployment. The prime minister was talking to British Foreign Secretary William Hague who called on him here to discuss matters pertaining to Pakistan-UK bilateral relations.
Gilani, who arrived here Monday to hold meetings with British leadership apart from his private engagements, said Pakistan-UK multidimensional co-operation in various areas especially in the socio-economic realm was vital to create new opportunities, development and promote peace and security in the region.
Pak-UK Strategic dialogue, trade access for Pakistani goods to European Union markets, collaboration between the two countries in the fields of trade and investment and education also came under discussion.
He said Pakistan noted the positive recommendation of the EU Council of Ministers about Pakistan in their meeting on July 18. The Statement, he said recognises Pakistan's sacrifices and achievements against terrorism and also reaffirms EU's commitment to Pakistan's eligibility to the GSP plus.
As partners, the prime minister said Pakistan looks forwards to the early convening of the third Pak-EU Summit and to work towards achieving the common objective of strengthening democracy, economic prosperity and a world free from terrorism. He appreciated British PM's speech in the parliament supporting Pakistan's role in global peace and security. The best way to fight extremism and terrorism, he said was to strengthen democracy and address the root causes that stem from socio-economic deprivations.
The prime minister said the government looked forward to the United Kingdom and international community for support in facing numerous challenges in the fight against militancy.
He expressed the hope that the UK would be able to withdraw the travel advisory to its citizens regarding Pakistan, which would greatly help businesses and trade linkages between two countries.
He also hoped that the British Airways would commence its flight operations for Pakistan. Prime Minister Gilani emphasised upon the need for deepening consultation on global and regional issues of peace and stability, enhancing investment and trade, collaboration in the education sector, and cultural and parliamentary links.
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