ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, June 23 (UPI) -- London is committed to a long-term and productive partnership with the government in Islamabad, the British foreign secretary said Wednesday in Pakistan.
British Foreign Secretary William Hague arrived Wednesday in Islamabad for his first official visit as a member of the British Cabinet.
Hague during his meetings with his Pakistani counterpart Mehmood Qureshi said London was committed to a durable relationship with Islamabad.
"The new British government is committed to a long-term, productive and friendly partnership with Pakistan," said Hague in comments published by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. "We want to maintain and strengthen the relationship that our countries enjoy, making the most of all the opportunities in the very broad relationship between our countries."
Qureshi said bilateral talks with the British foreign secretary were positive, the Associated Press of Pakistan reports.
Qureshi added that London agreed to a development assistance package for Pakistan of nearly $1 billion over a period of four years.
"We view Pakistan as a long-term, strategic partner with whom we want to have even closer relations," added Hague.
Hague meets later with the Pakistani prime minister and other top government officials during his 3-day visit.
