ISLAMABAD, April 3: Pakistan and France have underscored the need for enhanced cooperation in various fields particularly in the area of defence.

This was agreed at a meeting between Defence Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal and a three-member French parliamentarian delegation which called on him here on Tuesday.

The meeting reviewed various aspects of defence cooperation and stressed the need for enhanced interaction and communication between the armed forces of the two countries. The meeting noted that it was essential to increase cooperation in areas of training and exchange of delegations by both sides.

The minister told the delegation that Pakistan attached greater importance to its ties with France, which was a reliable and dependable friend of Pakistan.

He briefed the delegation about the counter-terrorism measures taken by the government. He told the delegation that Pakistan had been a victim of terrorism and it was endeavouring to eliminate and curb the menace of terrorism and extremism.

The French side lauded the contribution made by Pakistan against the war on terror. The minister deeply appreciated the support provided by the French government in the construction of Agosta submarines.

He also thanked the government and people of France for their generous assistance provided to Pakistan in the wake of October 8, 2005 earthquake.

Later the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, Luo Hao Hui, also called on the minister and discussed with him matters of mutual interest.

It was agreed that their existed a vast scope of cooperation in areas of trade economy and defence, and cooperation in these areas needed to be further intensified and expanded.

The envoy told the minister that China enjoyed excellent relations with Pakistan and wanted do further strengthen and deepen its ties in areas of trade and economy so as to make this mutual cooperation more fruitful and sustainable.

The minister informed the ambassador that Pakistan was proud of its relations with China, which was always supportive to Pakistan.

He told Luo Hao Hui that Pakistan provided an ideal and conducive environment for foreign investment and it would be in the mutual benefit of both friendly countries if the Chinese investors come to Pakistan for investment in various sectors.