Pakistan and Australia have discussed bilateral and regional issues during consultations between their foreign ministries, an official statement said. The Pakistan side was led by Akhtar Tufail, Additional Foreign Secretary while Australian side by Paul Grigson, First Assistant Foreign Secretary. They sides exchanged views on different aspects of bilateral and regional issues. The Pakistan side underlined its commitment to the improvement and deepening relations with Australia as part of its overall Vision East Asia policy. "President General Pervez Musharraf's visit to Australia and Prime Minister Howard's visit to Pakistan last year laid solid foundation for a strong and sustainable relationship," the statement said. Pakistan also sought Australia's support for its membership of ASEAN, ASEM, APEC and IOR-ARC. The Australian side appreciated the key role played by Pakistan in global war against terrorism. It assured that Australian pledge for the reconstruction needs for earthquake- affected areas would be redeemed on time.
