By NNN-APP,
Islamabad : Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday expressed strong desire of his government to work closely with Canada to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
Pakistan wants to further improve its cordial relations with Canada in all fields including economic, defence, trade and investment areas, the Prime Minister said while talking to David B Collin, the outgoing High Commissioner of Canada, who called on him here at the PM House this morning.
The Prime Minister said during the recent elections the people have voted for moderate and democratic forces in the country.
He said that broad-based governments representing these forces have been formed in the country including NWFP and Baluchistan.
The Prime Minister appreciated the valuable contributions made by the High Commissioner in strengthening relations between the two countries during his assignment in Pakistan.
He wished him well in his next assignment. He also appreciated the useful work done by the Canadian observers in monitoring the elections in Pakistan.
Talking about Afghanistan, the Prime Minister said that Pakistan wants a stable and peaceful Afghanistan as it will help promote economic development in the region and also pave the way for increased regional cooperation.
Pakistan also wants early repatriation of Afghan refugees to their country with dignity and honour, he added.
About illegal cross border movements, the Prime Minister said Pakistan has taken several measures to check these including the setting up of 900 checkposts and installing biometrics system along the border.
Pakistan is also ready to fence the border with Afghanistan and appreciated the Canadian help in this connection. He said Afghanistan’s response in this connection is awaited.
The High Commissioner said he had valuable support from the government of Pakistan in the discharge of his duties during his stay in the country. He said his tenure was pleasant and productive and he would always fondly remember it.
He said how the entire Pakistani nation rose to help the earthquake affected people in the country will also stay etched in his mind.
He said Canada’s relations with Pakistan will grow and strengthen in the years to come as significant bilateral cooperation already exists between the two countries.
He said he is sure that Canadian investment in Pakistan will also continue to grow and expand in the coming years. Collin also assured that his country intends to take more active interest in the issue of the resettlement of Afghan refugees in their own country.
Senior officials were also attended the meeting.