German relaxation in policy of small arms export to Pakistan

Islamabad, Sept 5 PPI: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani says German
government's relaxation in its present policy of small arms export to Pakistan will
strengthen its capability to fight terrorism.



Talking to visiting German Defence Minister Dr. Franz Josef Jung on Friday, he said
Pakistan greatly values its relations with Germany which are based on mutual
respect, shared perceptions on significant regional and international issues.



Pakistan is firmly committed to fighting terrorism he said and briefed Dr Jung on
Pakistan's three pronged strategy in this regard. Overwhelming majority of
Pakistanis particularly people in tribal and bordering areas with Afghanistan were
supportive of government's efforts in war against terrorism.



Gilani called on allied forces to desist from undertaking attacks on Pakistani
territory which only served to enhance sympathies for terrorists among general
masses particularly among people suffering from collateral damage.



Prime Minister welcomed growing military and defence cooperation between the two
countries and said this would help in further strengthening their relations. He felt
high-level contacts are effective tools for strengthening cooperation between both
countries. He called for increased official exchanges and people to people contacts
in interest of adding substance to relations.



Dr. Jung assured his government's support in war against terrorism and endorsed
Pakistan's current strategy in this war. He also assured Germany would consider
proposals made by Pakistan for increased defence cooperation between two countries.