ISLAMABAD, Jan 2: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has reiterated Pakistan’s offer to cooperate with India in investigating the Mumbai terrorist attacks.

During a meeting with Lord Bishop Michael Nazir Ali, a member of the British House of Lords, the prime minister briefed him on his government’s policy for improving relations with neighbouring countries, particularly India, and efforts being made to resolve outstanding issues, including the issue of Kashmir, through composite dialogue.

Welcoming US President-elect Barrack Obama’s initiative to appoint former president Bill Clinton to help resolve the Kashmir issue, he said that Pakistan looked forward to the initiative to resolve the outstanding issue.

He said that the welfare of minorities was an important part of the PPP manifesto and his government had taken major steps to protect their rights.

He said that a five per cent quota in jobs had been set for the minorities and their representation in the national and provincial assemblies and Senate would be enhanced.

The prime minister apprised Lord Bishop Nazir Ali of the development schemes, financial support and other programmes being undertaken by the government for the minorities.

Lord Bishop Nazir commended the steps and praised the role of Christian missionary schools and hospitals for education and health sectors.

He said he had always projected in the House of Lords Pakistan’s policies for protecting the interests of the minority community.

Minister for Minorities Shahbaz Bhatti, Begum Shahnaz Wazir Ali and Bishop Azad Marshal also attended the meeting.