Gilani asks SAARC nations to jointly fight terrorism
Describing terrorism as a transnational and trans-regional phenomenon, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has appealed to South Asian countries to partner with Pakistan in fighting terrorism.
Describing terrorism as a transnational and trans-regional phenomenon, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has appealed to South Asian countries to partner with Pakistan in fighting terrorism.
Gilani said he reaffirmed Pakistan's "will and determination to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" at the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit, held in Thimpu, Bhutan from April 28-29.
"I underscored that terrorism is global, regional and local, transnational and trans-regional phenomenon. I reiterated the need to join hands to fight it individually as well as collectively," he said in a statement issued in Islamabad on his return from Bhutan.
Gilani said he had stressed the need for SAARC states "to forge a common front, based on tolerance, on respect for human dignity and universal values."
A meeting of Interior Ministers of SAARC states, to be hosted by Pakistan in June, will help "strengthen cooperation in this vital area," he said.
The premier said Pakistan had also stressed the need to "create harmony and stability in the region to realise socio-economic development and ensure the well-being of our peoples."
SAARC leaders supported Pakistan's efforts for peace and stability in South Asia, he added.
Gilani noted that member states had agreed to redouble efforts to realise the "SAARC Development Goals which would help in poverty alleviation, food and energy security, health and education."
Referring to the summit's theme of climate change, Gilani said this reflected the common concern of SAARC states.
"Pakistan is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and global warming," he said.
Noting that the SAARC Convention on Cooperation on Environment was signed at the summit, Gilani said, "Now we need to focus on sharing best practices and pool our resources to adopt region-wide mitigation and adaptation measures."
"I elaborated on the need for regional cooperation on water conservation and water management," he said.
