Britain assures Pakistan for its re-entry to Commonwealth

ISLAMABAD : The British Foreign Secretary David Miliband Monday said that his country fully supports Pakistan’s re-entry to the Commonwealth, besides adopting multi-pronged comprehensive strategy to deal with the menace of terrorism.He was talking to newsmen along with Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi after holding formal talks here at Foreign Office.
The British Foreign Secretary also praised Pakistan’s democratic transition and promised to push for Pakistan’s reinstatement to the Commonwealth.
David Miliband also reiterated support for the new civilian government’s plans to negotiate with militants who renounce violence.
Miliband who met with President Pervez Musharraf, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi today said democratic transition that Pakistan’s people have undergone over the last few months has been appreciated by the world.
He said, “I want Britain to be a leading voice calling for Pakistan’s re-entry into the Commonwealth.” He praised the courage of Pakistan’s new political leadership.
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in his statement said that political engagements between the two countries would help further improving understanding on various issues and bring stability in the region.
He said there should be reconciliation with those who support peace and want to remain in the limits of law. He said reconciliation does not mean to create space for those who are engaged in violence.
Miliband said the UK also supports Pak India dialogue and hopes that with the installation of democratic government in Pakistan, this dialogue process would lead to resolution of all outstanding issues including Kashmir.
He said second visit of the Foreign Secretary in eight months is reflective of Britain’s close developing ties and UK’s close interest in regional stability and Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
He said both the countries have common perceptions on various regional and international issues and he has held meaningful dialogue with his British counterpart during the visit.
The Foreign Minister said both the countries agreed to have multi-dimension approach to solve the problem of terrorism and they feel that there is growing realization in the world to resolve the issue through dialogue.
Answering question regarding dialogue with India, he said the 5th round would begin next month and hoped that both the countries will move forward to resolve all outstanding issues.
Replying to another question, Foreign Minister said Frontier Crimes Rules (FCR) are being reviewed and certain amendments would be made in it in consultation with stakeholders.
Answering another question, he said government is making all out efforts for the release of Pakistani Ambassador to Afghanistan, Tariq Azizuddin.