Pakistan and the United Kingdom have agreed to establish a structured mechanism for formal talks between their foreign ministries as Islamabad and London seek to further strengthen bilateral ties and ensure regular progress on areas of mutual cooperation.
The understanding was reached during delegation-level talks between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband in London on Thursday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting was held during Dar’s official visit to the United Kingdom and covered the full spectrum of Pakistan-UK bilateral relations, with the two sides discussing ways to deepen cooperation and maintain sustained high-level engagement.
According to the Foreign Office, the proposed mechanism will provide a formal framework for talks between the two foreign ministries, covering all areas of bilateral cooperation and allowing both sides to regularly review progress in key areas. The two ministers underscored the importance of continued high-level engagement and closer coordination on issues of mutual interest, signalling an effort to give greater institutional structure to Pakistan-UK diplomatic ties.
Regional and international developments also featured prominently in the discussions, particularly the evolving situation in the Middle East. Dar briefed Miliband on Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts in the region and shared the progress made through Islamabad’s engagements aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing tensions.
The British foreign secretary appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and facilitation efforts in promoting dialogue, diplomacy and stability in the Middle East, according to the Foreign Office.
The exchange comes amid continuing regional instability and underscored the importance attached by both countries to diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Developments relating to the Indus Waters Treaty were also discussed, with Dar highlighting Pakistan’s concerns over India’s persistent violations of its international obligations. The deputy prime minister stressed the importance of upholding international law and respecting treaty commitments, according to the Foreign Office.
The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the sharing of the waters of the Indus river system between Pakistan and India and has remained a key issue in bilateral relations.
The security situation in the region was another major issue raised during the talks. Dar expressed serious concern over terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil and the activities of militant groups operating from Afghanistan, which Pakistan says pose a threat to its peace and security. The two sides discussed the broader regional security environment and stressed the importance of continued engagement to promote peace and stability.
Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns with Afghanistan’s Taliban government over what it says are attacks and militant activity originating from Afghan territory. Islamabad has urged Kabul to prevent its territory from being used by terrorist groups against Pakistan.