ATHENS, May 16: Pakistan and Greece on Tuesday emphasised the need for a diplomatic solution to Iran’s nuclear issue and expressed concern over the current situation in Iraq, a joint communique issued here at the conclusion of Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz’s three-day visit to the Helenic Republic said.

The communique while reiterating commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq, stated that the present situation remained a cause of concern and expressed hope that the formation of a government of national unity would facilitate efforts of the international community.

The joint communique also agreed to institutionalise their economic cooperation while stressing an early conclusion of an agreement on the promotion and protection of investment.

During the talks the two sides also expressed their desire to further strengthen bilateral contacts at all levels.

The prime minister, the first Pakistani head of government to visit Greece, in his talks with President Karolos Papoulias, his counterpart Kostas Karamanlis, ministers and business leaders stressed expanded economic cooperation and greater engagement of the two private sectors for the mutual benefit of the people. The communique stated that the two sides agreed on convening of the 4th meeting of the Joint Economic Committee at ministerial level at the earliest.

They also appreciated the signing of agreements on tourism and cooperation between the chambers of commerce of the two countries.

They also agreed to enhance cultural cooperation and full implementation of the relevant exchange programme signed in December 1976.

Satisfaction was expressed by both the sides over the purchase of two frigates for the Pakistan Navy as these will positively contribute to bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The two prime ministers also reviewed the recent global and regional developments.

Prime Minister Aziz briefed on Pakistan’s efforts for improvement of relations between Pakistan and India and urged for peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Prime Minister Karamanlis briefed the prime minister on efforts to improve relations with Turkey and peaceful resolution of the Cyprus question.

The two sides reaffirmed their support for international efforts for a just and durable settlement of the Palestinian problem, that will lead to the establishment of a Palestinian State.—APP