LONDON: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Thursday lauded the British government's ongoing cooperation and assistance to Pakistan in spheres of security and counter-terrorism.

The prime minister, who is currently in London on an official visit, was speaking to British Home Secretary Theresa May, who called on him.

He reiterated Pakistan's commitment to fight extremism and militancy, and pointed out the unprecedented sacrifices rendered by the country in terms of human lives and economic losses.

Sharif updated Secretary May on the National Internal Security Policy (NISP) and the dialogue process with the Pakistani Taliban.

The premier shared his government's plans to improve the working of counter-terrorism departments at the federal and provincial level.

He also underlined the need for enhanced cooperation between the two countries in all spheres.

The home secretary said the British government recognised Pakistan's commitment and sacrifices in the global war on terror. She said the United Kingdom would extend all possible help to strengthen Pakistan's capacity in dealing with extremism and terrorism.

Both sides expressed their resolve to continue benefiting from each other's expertise in relevant areas.

Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz and acting High Commissioner Mohammad Imran Mirza also attended the meeting.

PM appreciates UK's strong support for GSP Plus status

Prime Minister Sharif on Thursday also appreciated UK's strong support for grant of GSP Plus status to Pakistan by the European Union (EU) and continued development assistance provided through Department for International Development (DFID), particularly in health and education sectors.

Speaking to British Foreign Secretary William Hague about his government's priorities, the prime minister said Pakistan was committed to enhancing the welfare and security of its people by reviving the economy, overcoming energy shortage, eradicating extremism and promoting human rights and good governance.

Secretary Hague appreciated the economic reforms agenda of the government and offered UK's assistance and cooperation in its implementation.

He also offered support to Pakistan in meeting its obligations under the GSP Plus regime.

The post-election situation in Afghanistan, including security environment in the post-2014 withdrawal scenario, was also discussed.

Secretary Hague welcomed the Pakistan government's efforts to establish cordial and cooperative relations with India.

Baroness Sayeeda Warsi and British High Commissioner for Pakistan Philip Barton accompanied Secretary Hague.

After the meeting, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by Foreign Secretary Hague and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar in the presence of the prime minister on the status and operations of the British Council in Pakistan.

The MoU manifests the desire of the two countries to further develop and strengthen the ties of friendship in educational, scientific, technical and cultural matters.