UK-Pakistan to 'stand together'

David Cameron has promised to "stand together" with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism, following talks with the country's new prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

He also said the relationship between the two countries should address the "positive" opportunities of trade, investment and people to people contact.

Terrorism is a "common threat" and a "huge global challenge", Pakistan's newly-elected Prime Minister said today during David Cameron's visit to the country.

Nawaz Sharif told the conference: "Pakistan has suffered the most in terms of human and financial costs.

"We are therefore resolved to tackle the menace of extremism and terrorism with renewed vigour and the close co-operation of friends.

"I have assured Prime Minister Cameron of our shared resolve to seek a peaceful and stable Afghanistan".

Read more: David Cameron sees Pakistan as important ally

The Prime Minister promised to "stand together" with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism following talks with his newly-elected counterpart Nawaz Sharif.

David Cameron also urged Pakistan to co-operate in creating a stable Afghanistan and pledged to go "further and faster" in boosting trade links between the two countries.

Speaking at the Pakistani Prime Minister's official residence, Mr Cameron said:

Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's election victory has given him credibility and a "certain power of influence" to encourage the Taliban on the path to peace and religion, the Prime Minister said today during his visit to the country.

David Cameron said: "I think that he is in a strong position because Pakistan has had this democratic transition which is a huge bonus for Pakistan and will raise its profile in a good way in the eyes of the world.

"Increasingly Pakistan knows it's in its best interests to have a stable Afghanistan as its neighbour".

David Cameron has been meeting young Pakistani citizens who are on a British council programme.

David Cameron will become the first world leader to meet Pakistan's newly-elected Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif later today.

The meeting with Mr Sharif, who became Pakistan's Prime Minister for an unprecedented third time last month in a surprise landslide election victory for his party, follows talks with President Asif Ali Zardari yesterday.

Mr Cameron's visit to Pakistan is being seen as an attempt to "relaunch" the UK's relationship with the country and open doors for British businesses.

A Number 10 source said: "The emphasis for us is relaunching the Pakistan relationship, getting in there early, helping work with them to shape the right reforms on security and development and also open up potential for British business given the growth in the Pakistan economy and potential there."

David Cameron has arrived in Pakistan for talks with President Asif Ali Zardari.