ISLAMABAD: The former prime minister and foreign minister of Sweden Mr. Carl Bildt accompanied by Anna Karin Enestrom, Director General, Political Affairs, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, called on the Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi, at the Foreign Office today. The Swedish delegation is on a two-day official visit to Pakistan from 31st May – 1stJune, 2016.

The SAPM while appreciating the cordial and friendly relations between Pakistan and Sweden underscored the need for increased engagement between the two countries in all areas, particularly the economic, education and culture. Cooperation in international forums on issues of regional and international importance also came under discussion. Fatemi also briefed the Swedish delegation on Pakistan's comprehensive strategy (National Action Plan and operation Zarb-e-Azb), to effectively deal with the menace of terrorism and extremism.

The former prime minister who is visiting Pakistan as the special representative of his prime minister affirmed that Sweden is keen to further strengthen and broaden its ties with Pakistan, in all spheres. Mr. Bildt also appreciated Pakistan's success in the campaign against terrorism and acknowledged Pakistan's positive strides in all fields, including the economy and law and order.