ISLAMABAD, October 18, SPA -- British Minister of State for Africa, Asia and United Nations Lord Mark Malloch Brown met Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz Thursday and discussed bilateral ties and other issues of joint concern. "Pakistan attaches high importance to its relations with the UK and is keen to further augment bilateral, political and economic ties between the two countries. The continuing high level exchanges between Pakistan and the UK have contributed to the strengthening of these relations, the Prime Minister said according to an official statement. Aziz appreciated the continued interest of private investors from the UK who have availed opportunities offered by Pakistan's growing economy and liberal economic policies. He praised the British government's economic assistance to Pakistan in various sectors including health and education. On his part, Lord Malloch Brown appreciated Pakistan's role and efforts to effectively tackle extremism and militancy. He extended the assurance that the British government will continue to work for greater market access for Pakistani products. The British Minister also appreciated economic stability achieved by Pakistan during the last few years and said that Pakistan stands out within Asia as an example of economic growth.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/491274