DAVOS, Jan. 28: Pakistan and Switzerland on Sunday decided to begin negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) to promote trade and economic relations and strengthen bilateral relations.

The decision was taken during a meeting between Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and President of the Swiss Confederation Ms Micheline Calmy-Rey, who called on him here on the sidelines of annual meeting of World Economic Forum.

Both the leaders also discussed regional and international situation with reference to increased cooperation for world peace, progress and prosperity.

They also agreed to strengthen the trade and economic relations between the two countries. Regional issues, including Afghanistan, Iran and Middle East, were also discussed during the meeting.

Shaukat Aziz also briefed the Swiss leader about the progress on Pakistan-India relations to resolve the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir and promote trade and economic relations to ensure peace and stability.

The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s position on the nuclear issue of Iran and said it should be resolved peacefully through negotiations, adding that the use of force would be counter-productive.

About the Middle East situation, both the leaders agreed that the Palestine issue should be resolved through dialogue process to ensure peace, stability and progress in the region.—APP