FM Qureshi, US secy Pompeo discuss bilateral relations, regional security
June 18, 2019
ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Monday spoke on phone with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to discuss bilateral relations and regional peace and security.
Qureshi who is currently on a visit to the United Kingdom for the fourth review of the two countries' Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD) briefed Pompeo about the measures being taken by Pakistan in accordance with National Action Plan and initiatives being taken by the government to carry out economic restructuring.
He also spoke about steps that Pakistan has been taking for compliance with Financial Action Task Force action plan.
He also highlighted the regulatory mechanisms that have been put in place to curb money laundering and terror financing practices.
The two sides also discussed the reconciliation process in Afghanistan and expressed a commitment to work towards bringing lasting peace in the region.
The foreign minister underscored the importance of a peaceful Afghanistan as vital for regional peace and stability. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm resolve to play its positive role in this process and to support an intra Afghan dialogue.
He also highlighted the Afghanistan Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity as a mechanism for strengthening bilateral relations between two countries and to have constructive engagement.
Qureshi underlined the high importance that Pakistan attaches to peace with all its neighbours.
He also reiterated the priority attached by the government of Pakistan to resolve all outstanding disputes through dialogue and engagement.
Qureshi meets UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid
Earlier in the day, Qureshi met British Home Secretary Sajid Javid in the House of Commons.
According to a press release, Qureshi and Javid "discussed matters of bilateral interest and reviewed the ongoing security cooperation under the institutional framework of Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD)".
The two countries' ministers said their respective nations "reaffirmed their continuing collaboration between the law enforcement agencies of the two countries at the operational level and counter-terrorism measures in accordance with the National Action Plan".
