The delegation was on a three-day visit to Brussels from June 14-16 at the invitation from Public Diplomacy Division of NATO, said a press release issued here Friday.
A comprehensive briefing was given to them on the ongoing NATO's operation in Afghanistan. The discussions were devoted to the developments in Afghanistan and insurgency over boarders.
Special emphasis was laid on NATO-Pakistan relations especially close ties and collaboration with Pakistan, as Pakistan is one of the allies in war on terror and the key partners for stability of the region.
NATO's assistance to Pakistan flood affected areas in 2010 and subsequent efforts for rehabilitation were highlighted. NATO's new strategic concepts and emerging security challenges were discussed at length. Emphasis was made on 'NATO's Partnerships Relations with special regards to Pakistan.
Terrorism, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Non-Proliferation policy and NATO's operations in Libya are the challenges NATO is confronted with these days.
The members of delegation stressed that military operations alone would not provide a long-term answer to creating a secure and peaceful environment in the region. A comprehensive approach, involving all stake holders, massive reconstruction of the region and poverty alleviation is the solution for a successful outcome of the international engagement.
The delegation also gave Pakistan's point of view on the security situation in the region as well as Pakistan's proactive efforts at establishing peace in the region.
Dilating up the deteriorating situation as a result of air strikes, the delegation called for a politically and economically stable Afghanistan so that the process of dialogue may get a chance to restore peace in the area. Participants also reiterated Pakistan's stance that a stable and peaceful Afghanistan is in the vital interest of Pakistan.
During their stay in Brussels the delegation also visited Supreme Europe Allied Headquarters (SHAPE) and had briefing on various functions of SHAPE in coordination with NATO. The delegation also had an interaction with the members of Pakistan Press Club in Brussels.
The representatives of all major newspapers, news agencies and TV channels in Brussels appraised the delegations about their efforts to highlight the image of the country during present circumstances despite various limitations.
Among the members of delegation were Maj. General Athar Abbas Director General ISPR; Munir Ahmed, Director Public Relations, President Secretariat, Sohail Ali Khan Director Public Relations, Khurram Agha Prime Minister Secretariat, Muhammad Tahir Hasan Director M/o Information & Broadcasting and Brig. Atiqur Rehman Deputy director ISPR.
Copyright APP (Associated Press of Pakistan), 2011