Qureshi says war on terror cost Pak 35 billion dollars

Islamabad, July 21 (ANI): Pakistan's war against terrorism has cost it more than 35 billion dollars, the country's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has claimed.

Addressing a joint press conference with EU Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana, Qureshi said Pakistan wants aid promised by the international community to provide aid to the affected people, The Dawn reports.

Speaking about his meeting with Solana, Qureshi said discussions were held to strengthen the strategic dialogue between the EU and Pakistan and some areas of cooperation were identified.

Solana, who is on a two day visit to Pakistan, said the EU recognises that Pakistan is going through difficult times and a number of steps are being taken to help Pakistan economically, including giving Pakistan market access to the European Union.

Solanavisited the Jalozai Camp earlier in the day, and was briefed on the displaced families and the issues related to their assistance.

Qureshi briefed the EU foreign policy chief on the engagement of Pakistan and India at the top level, the military operation and the phased return of the IDPs.

Solana said a number of issues are on the agenda of EU's engagement with Pakistan, including terrorism. (ANI)