Kasuri for Britain's help to meet Pak defence needs

Islamabad, July 4: Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Kasuri has stressed that the country should be provided more training opportunities for its armed forces and hoped that Britain would assist the nation in meeting its defence needs by providing modern equipment.

Mr Kasuri was talking to Chairman of the British House of Commons' Defence Select Committee James Arbuthnot here yesterday.

He said British MPs' visit would play an important role in creating greater understanding between Pakistan and Great Britain on various issues besides strengthening ''the country's relations in the field of defence and counter-terrorism''.

He also called for adopting a holistic approach to deal with terrorism and said it was impossible to defeat only by military means.

James Arbuthnot, who is heading a 12-member delegation of British MP's, praised Pakistan's commitment in its fight against terrorism and important role in maintenance of regional peace and stability and hoped that relations between Pakistan and Great Britain would continue to grow.

Meanwhile, Mr Kasuri left for France today on three-day visit to have bilateral talks with French leaders.

He will hold talks with his French counterpart Philippe Douste-Blazy on bilateral, regional and international issues.

Mr Kasuri will travel to Washington for talks with his American counterpart Condoleezza Rice on July 10.

UNI