Pakistan PM, Kerry discuss regional security

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif met with US Secretary of State John Kerry on the sidelines of the London Conference on Afghanistan, a media report said Friday.

During the meeting Thursday, they discussed matters of mutual interest and regional security, Radio Pakistan reported.

Sharif and Kerry also discussed the regional situation and the success of the ongoing military operation "Zarb-e-Azb" and said that 80 percent of the area has been cleared of terrorists and the operation will continue till their complete elimination.

Sharif said that Pakistan's intensive anti-terrorism cooperation and efforts for regional peace and security need to be better recognised by the international community.

He said that a stable, prosperous and democratic Afghanistan was in Pakistan's best interests and said his country looks forward to having a good working relationship with the new Afghan government.

Secretary Kerry acknowledged Pakistan's contribution and sacrifices in the war on terror.

He welcomed improvement in ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan and regarded it a step towards regional stability.