UK-Pakistan relationship 'unbreakable'

David Cameron and President Asif Ali Zardari insisted today that the relationship between Britain and Pakistan was "unbreakable" after holding talks at Chequers.

The two leaders attempted to smooth over the row sparked by the Prime Minister's recent controversial comments, when he suggested elements within Pakistan were aiding terrorism.

Standing alongside Mr Cameron at his country retreat, Mr Zardari said: "This is a friendship that will never break, no matter what happens.

"Storms will come and storms will go, and Pakistan and Britain will stand together and face all the difficulties with dignity and we will make sure that the world is a better place for our coming generations."

Mr Cameron said: "The president and I have been talking about what we see as an unbreakable relationship between Britain and Pakistan based on our mutual interests...

"Above all what we've been talking about is our strategic partnership and how we can deepen and enhance that partnership to make sure we deal with all the issues where we want to see progress - whether that is in trade, whether it is in education and also in the absolutely vital area of combating terrorism, where we want to work together to combat terrorism.

"Whether it is keeping troops safe in Afghanistan or keeping people safe on the streets of Britain, that is a real priority for my Government, and somewhere where, with Pakistan, we are going to work together in this enhanced strategic partnership."

The text also included a recognition from Mr Cameron of the "sacrifices" that Pakistan had made in the fight against terrorism.

The PM's remarks during a visit to regional rival India last month were criticised for ignoring the death toll the country had suffered as it tried to tackle extremism.

Mr Zardari had pledged to challenge Mr Cameron over his comments when they met.

"Both leaders discussed the role being played by the (Pakistan) democratic government in fighting against terrorism," the statement said.

"The Prime Minister recognised the sacrifices made by Pakistan's military, civil law enforcement agencies and people in fighting violent extremism and militancy and appreciated the efforts of the democratic government.

"Both leaders appreciated the close co-operation that already exists between respective police forces and other security agencies.

"The two leaders agreed that such co-operation needs to and will intensify."

Downing Street said the hour-long meeting this morning was "very warm and constructive", with "excellent dynamics" between the two men.

Asked to confirm that the leaders had addressed Mr Cameron's remarks in India, the official merely replied that there had been a "detailed and very constructive, fruitful discussion on counter- terrorism issues".

It was agreed that annual summits would be held between the UK Prime Minister and Pakistan President, and ministers would meet to enhance links within their briefs.

There will also be direct contacts between top civilian and military officials, with the PM's National Security Adviser and the Chief of the Defence Staff among those expected to work closely with their opposite numbers.