UK HC summoned: Pakistan seeks explanation over Cameron's remarks

Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, in a meeting with the British High Commissioner, H.E. Mr. Adam Thomson, in the Foreign Office on Monday, conveyed the sentiments of the Government and the people of Pakistan at the remarks made by the British Prime Minister during his recent visit to India regarding Pakistan. During a recent visit to India, Cameron accused Pakistan having a dual policy that supported terrorism and demanded respect as a democracy both at the same time. The Foreign Minister emphasized that terrorism was a global issue and had to be dealt with by all countries in a spirit of cooperation, rather than putting the entire onus on any one country. He said Pakistan was itself a victim of terrorism and its efforts against violent extremism could not be negated, according to Foreign office spokesman. The British High Commissioner explained the context in which the remarks were made by the British Prime Minister adding that the UK was looking forward to further strengthening its strategic relations with Pakistan in the months and years ahead. It was underlined that the upcoming meeting between the President of Pakistan and the Prime Minister of Britain at Chequers would provide a useful opportunity to understand each other's viewpoint on issues of mutual concern, as well as take the bilateral relationship forward. Meanwhile diplomatic sources told Online that Shah Mehmood Qureshi lodging strong protest with the British High Commissioner has emphasized that anti Pakistan statement by the British premier in India could negatively impact Pakistan's cooperation in war against terror and security relations with the UK Sources told that the British High Commissioner has been given a demarche in which it has been stated that the UK Premier used non diplomatic language which could impact the relations between the two countries. The demarche further said that Pakistan's sacrifices in fighting terrorism are unmatchable by any other country. Pakistan has sacrificed the lives of its armed forces and people for world peace, our economy is in tatters and instead of helping us out we are being accused of supporting terrorism.

ePaper - Nawaiwaqt