Miliband meets PML-N leaders: Nawaz asks international community to recognise Pakistan's sacrifices

Britain's Member of Parliament and former Foreign Secretary David Miliband met PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif at his Raiwind residence on Saturday and discussed his plan for a decentralised political settlement of the Afghan quagmire, sources said.
Bilateral relations between Pakistan and United Kingdom and matters of mutual interest were also discussed during the meeting, sources added. Views were also exchanged over regional situation and matters pertaining to Afghanistan in post-Osama scenario, sources said.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Opposition Leader in NA Nisar Ali Khan and Senator Ishaq Dar were also present in the meeting. Talking Nawaz Sharif, Miliband said that the international community wants more pro-active role of Islamabad against different militant groups. He acknowledged the critical role played by Pakistan in the struggle against militancy and terrorism but stressed that Pakistan must act decisively against terror groups, sources said while quoting him as having said.
He stressed that the international community needed to do more to assist Pakistan in these difficult times. Miliband also expressed his thanks and deep appreciation to Nawaz for his warmth and friendship and his strong support for close and co-operative ties between Pakistan and the UK. He also expressed admiration to PML-N leader for his vigorous efforts to strengthen democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan.
Nawaz called upon the international community not to ignore the tremendous sacrifices rendered by the people of Pakistan in the course of combating militancy and terrorism and, instead, show understanding and appreciation for the country's efforts.
He emphasised his own and his party's strong and consistent opposition to all acts of militancy and extremism, especially as there was no place for violence or terrorism in Islam. He stressed need for understanding the complex geo-political, social and economic factors that contributed to a culture of violence, not only in Pakistan but the world over.
Nawaz termed Miliband as a friend of Pakistan and recounted that during his term of office he had played leading role in promoting political and economic ties between the two countries. He also said that in view of Britain's historic relationship with this region, it was well placed to play an important role in promoting dialogue and understanding amongst countries and peoples so as to strengthen the forces of peace and harmony.