Norwegian FM says terrorist incidents decreased in Pakistan

Norwegian Foreign Minister, Borge Brende, on Thursday appreciated the counterterrorism strategy of Pakistan and said that there is a sharp decline in terrorist incidents in Pakistan.

"We feel very happy that the security situation in Pakistan has improved a lot. The country is more stable and we look forward for even better situation in the near future. Pakistan must play its role for a peaceful Afghanistan", said the Norwegian foreign minister in his meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

He called for peace in Afghanistan and said peace in Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan and the region as well.

"We will extend all possible support to the Afghan-led peace initiatives", responded the prime minister, according to a statement from the PM office.

Borge Brende said that Pakistan's positive role in defusing the tension between Iran and Saudi was very welcoming and was duly appreciated by the world over.

The Norwegian foreign minister conveyed the deepest condolences on behalf of Norwegian prime minister and the people of Norway over the recent terrorist attack in Quetta which had killed over 70 people.

Welcoming the delegation, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif said that eliminating terrorism from Pakistan was the topmost priority of his government.

"We launched military offensive against terrorists after evolving a national consensus. The ongoing military operation in North Waziristan tribal region has been a huge success in curtailing terrorism throughout the country," said the prime minister.

Nawaz Sharif said the operation has dismantled the terrorists'networks who have lately resorted to hit soft targets out of sheer frustration.

The Norwegian foreign minister and Pakistan foreign affairs adviser, Sartaj Aziz, held bilateral talks in which both agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse fields, particularly in trade, investment and energy.

Speaking at presser along with Aziz, the Norwegian foreign minister said companies in his countries are interested in investing in hydro and solar energy projects. He hoped the Pakistani commerce minister's upcoming visit will help enhance bilateral trade and said Pakistan's economy is recovering as the deficit is going down and inflation is lot lower.

Sartaj Aziz said positive discussions were held with the Norwegian foreign minister for increasing Norway's investment in Pakistan. He said 10 Norwegian companies have already been doing business in Pakistan, and avenues have been explored to widen this network.

He said Pakistan's commerce minister will visit Norway in October to find new opportunities for enhancing trade between the two countries. He said 50,000 Pakistani nationals have been working in Norway in various fields. Endit