Pakistan will seek an explanation from the British high commissioner here on Prime Minister David Cameron’s comments linking the country to the “export of terror”, foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said.
Cameron’s warning to Islamabad to sever links with groups that promote the export of terror to Afghanistan and India have cast a shadow on Pakistan-Britain relations and the chief of the powerful ISI has cancelled an upcoming visit to London to convey the military’s displeasure over the remarks.
“British Prime Minister David Cameron’s comments were surprising,” Mr Qureshi told a TV news channel. He said Pakistan will seek an explanation on the remarks from the British high commissioner.
Pakistan is a frontline state in the war on terror and its achievements and successes could not be negated, Mr Qureshi contended. Pakistanis and armed forces have made great sacrifices in the war, he added.
The international community too has recognised the struggle and steps being taken by Pakistan against terrorism and Mr Cameron should be aware of the country’s role, he said.
Diplomatic sources said an official of the British high commission is expected to be called to the Foreign Office on Monday to seek an explanation on Mr Cameron’s comments.
Cameron had on Wednesday said in Bangalore that Pakistan should not have ties with groups that promote the export of terror to Afghanistan or India.
Pakistan had angrily reacted to Mr Cameron’s statement, saying it had done more than other nations in combating the menace.