PM Nawaz, Sartaj discuss bilateral ties with German FM

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AFP
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PM Nawaz, Sartaj discuss bilateral ties with German FM
ISLAMABAD: German Foreign Minister Frank Walter Steinmeier called on Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad on Monday.

During the meeting with the German FM, PM Nawaz said that the national economy is witnessing a turnaround with key indicators showing improvement.

He added that the operation against terrorism is also yielding positive results.

Matters relating to bilateral and regional interest with particular focus on peace and stability in the region were also discussed.

The PM recalled his visit to Germany in November last year and his meetings with Chancellor Angela Merkel.

He further said he had already directed the concerned authorities to follow the mutually agreed areas of cooperation that were discussed during his visit, particularly bilateral trade and investment.

He thanked Germany for supporting Pakistan on the GSP Plus status given by the European Union.

German FM Steinmeier said bilateral relations between the two countries are improving.

He went on to say that cooperation in the economic field and other sectors would further make the ties stronger between the two countries.

He paid tremendous respect as well as appreciated the sacrifices made by Pakistan in the fight against terrorism.

Steinmeier says Kashmir dispute cannot be excluded from Pakistan-India dialogue

In a separate meeting between Advisor on National Security, Sartaj Aziz and German FM Steinmeier, followed by a joint press conference, Aziz said that international community needs to join hands to develop a strategy to counter terrorism.

Aziz went on to say that said Operation Zarb-e-Azb has broken the backbone of terrorists and is determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism.

The Adviser said Pakistan welcomes German investment in various sectors of economy including engineering and renewable energy.

Steinmeier said Germany gives importance to its relations with Pakistan.

The FM appreciated Pakistan’s achievements in the fight against terrorism and said that the world recognises its sacrifices in the war against terrorism.

He further said Kashmir dispute cannot be excluded from Pakistan-India dialogue.

He pointed out that there are pressing issues between both the countries including Jammu and Kashmir.

Steinmeier added that it is important for both the countries to engage in talks for the resolution of issues.