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LONDON: British Prime Minister David Cameron’s attempts to mend ‘fragile’ relations with Pakistan have been dashed after he was snubbed by Pakistan’s prime minister, Daily Mail reported on Wednesday.
Mr Cameron wanted to visit Pakistan to try and patch up ties with it after he said during a visit to India the UK could not tolerate the idea that Pakistan was allowed to look ‘both ways’ and was able to promote the export of terror, whether to India or to Afghanistan or anywhere else in the world.
He had asked to go to Islamabad on his way to Afghanistan. But his attempt to invite himself ended in a firm refusal, as Prime Minister Gilani said he did not want to be tagged onto a visit to Afghanistan, the report said.
Mr Cameron often tries to squeeze several countries into a single foreign visit, as he has to try and deal with the recession and cuts agenda at home. His last trip to the region ended with causing great offence — first to Pakistan for casting doubt on its commitment to fighting terror and second to Israel for criticising its treatment of Palestinians.
Cameron calls Zardari
UK Premier Cameron telephoned President Asif Zardari on Wednesday night. The two leaders discussed bilateral matters and the situation in the region.
