Pakistan and Australia to develop strategic Relationship
'Pakistan Times' National News Desk

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Australia have underlined the need to develop strategic relationship and expand the existing bilateral ties in the areas of trade, economy and defence.

In line to discuss modalities for enhancement of cooperation, a meeting between minister of Defence Chaudary Ahmad Mukhtar and the visiting Australian Chief of Defence Fores Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston who called on the Minister here Wednesday was held.

The meeting also discussed the security situation of the region with focus on war on terror.

The Minister highlighted the counter-tourism measures taken by Pakistan. He conveyed to the Australian Chief of Defence Forces that Pakistan would not allow its territory to be used as launching pad by the extremists and terrorist elements.

He informed the visiting dignitary that Pakistan had adopted a three-pronged strategy based on negotiations, economic development and the use of force to stem the tide of terrorism.

He said that terrorism posed a greater challenge to the world peace and stability and its elimination was only possible by addressing its real causes like poverty, ignorance and sense of deprivation.

He said that the Federally Administrated Tribal Areas (FATA) needed the development of economic infrastructure so as to generate economic and employment opportunities in the area.

The Australian Chief of Defence Forces Angus Houston, said that his country was very keen to promote a strategic relationship with Pakistan for the mutual benefits of the two sides.

He told the Minister that his country wanted to work together with Pakistan to stamp out terrorism.

He said the role of Pakistan was very crucial in eliminating the menace of terrorism. He held out an assurance to assist Pakistan in combating and defeating terrorism. He lauded the key role played by Pakistan against the war on terror.●