Pakistan, UK Agree on Structured Dialogue to Boost Ties

LONDON: Pakistan and the United Kingdom have agreed to establish a structured dialogue mechanism between their foreign ministries to strengthen bilateral relations, expand cooperation across multiple areas and ensure regular follow-up on key areas of mutual interest.

The agreement was reached during delegation-level talks between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband in London during Dar’s official visit to the United Kingdom.

The two sides reviewed the full spectrum of Pakistan-UK relations and agreed that a formal and sustained mechanism for engagement would help further deepen cooperation and facilitate regular assessments of progress in key areas.

The two foreign ministers also exchanged views on important regional and international developments, including the evolving situation in the Middle East. Ishaq Dar briefed his British counterpart on Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting dialogue, diplomacy and regional stability.

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and facilitation efforts in encouraging dialogue, diplomacy and stability in the Middle East.

During the meeting, Ishaq Dar also raised the issue of the Indus Waters Treaty and highlighted Pakistan’s concerns over what it described as India’s persistent violations of its international obligations. He stressed the importance of respecting international law and fulfilling treaty commitments.

The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed serious concern over terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil and the activities of terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan against Pakistan. He emphasized the need for effective measures to address threats to regional peace and security.

Both sides underscored the importance of sustained engagement and close coordination in advancing peace, stability and cooperation in the region and beyond.

The two countries also recognized the important role of the Pakistani diaspora in strengthening the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. They noted that people-to-people contacts and the Pakistani community in the UK remain an important bridge between the two countries and can contribute further to strengthening bilateral ties.