Spain and Pakistan on Friday rejected associating terrorism with any nation, culture, or religion. A joint declaration, released simultaneously from Islamabad and Madrid at the end of President General Pervez Musharraf’s visit to Spain, The two countries condemned terrorism, posing serious threats to peace, stability, and international security. They reiterated commitment to study initiatives for the development and strengthening of intercultural and inter-religious dialogue. They also noted the contributions made by the Alliance of Civilisations in the framework of the United Nations and the Pakistani strategy of “enlightened moderation,” also praised by Spain.
The two sides supported the central role of the UN in the international communityÂ’s efforts against terrorism. They vowed to intensify exchange of information between different state security forces and other agencies in the fight against terrorism.
The talks between Pakistan and Spain focused on cooperation in political area, combating human trafficking, multilateral issues, defence and security, economic and trade, millennium development goals, cultural, scientific, education and international affairs.
| I'm wondering how long a talk on combating human trafficking has to be. "Zappy, you think human trafficking is bad?" "I dunno, Perv, what do you think?" |
| We can imagine the luncheon menu. |
The two countries will also accelerate procedure to ink agreement on double taxation to promote industrial cooperation between their private sectors with special focus on new technologies and sustainable development.
They also agreed to deepen their relations within the context of European Union-Pakistan relations.
Spain acknowledged the role of Pakistan as a major contributor to peacekeeping missions as part of their efforts towards international peace and security.
The two countries acknowledged the joint relief efforts by the Pakistani Armed Forces and the Spanish contingent deployed in the Arja and Bagh areas as part of the NATO Response Force in the aftermath of the October 2005 earthquake.
Spain praised the access granted by Pakistan to its logistical shipments for Afghanistan.
| "More ammo fer the widows!" |
The two sides discussed the prevailing situation in South Asia. Pakistan briefed on the peace process with India for the resolution of all outstanding issues, particularly Jammu and Kashmir.
Spain and Pakistan welcomed establishment of an effective system of national export controls, controlling the export and transit of goods related to weapons of mass destruction.