Pakistani PM calls for closer NATO ties

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Jan. 23 (UPI) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has called for increased strategic and political dialogue with NATO.

The Associated Press of Pakistan reported Friday that the prime minister made the comment to NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer when they met Thursday.

Gilani also used his meeting to reiterate Pakistan's commitment to fighting terrorism. He said restoring stability on Pakistan's western borders was the prerequisite for peace, prosperity and progress for Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Scheffer said NATO and Pakistan share same goals in combating terrorism.