By IRNA,
Islamabad : Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Saturday told the visiting Japanese Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura that his government will pursue the policy of political dialogue with the militants for peace.
Komura is on a 4-day visit to Pakistan, the first by Japanese Foreign Minister since the formation of new government after the February 18 elections.
Gilani while referring to the new strategy to combat terrorism said that his government is evolving a new multi-pronged strategy to effectively confront the issue of terrorism and extremism which drives its strength from socio-economic disparity and un-resolved political disputes.
“The new policy would include political dialogue, socio-economic development and security measures”.
He expressed confidence that this multi-pronged strategy would bear fruit and ensure socio-economic development, improvement of infrastructure, peace and security in the areas bordering Afghanistan.
He categorically mentioned that the talks would only be held with those elements that believe in peace, lay down their arms and abhor terrorism, an official statement said.
Komura said that Japan as the chairman of G-8 group would apprise the member countries of the challenges being faced by Pakistan and ask them to extend assistance for the economic stability of Pakistan.
The economic development in Pakistan, he said would support the endeavors for peace in the region.
Japan, he added, understands the difficulties being faced by Pakistan and would extend every possible support to strengthen democracy and economic development.
Komura underlined government of Japan’s full support to Pakistan for the development of its social sector particularly the need in the field of education, health and infrastructure development.