Islamabad, Oct 7 (IANS): Pakistan has bid for the full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and is keen to be associated with its regional counter-terrorism structure.
President Asif Ali Zardari Thursday said that Pakistan greatly appreciates Uzbek support to its bid for the full membership of the SCO, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported.
The SCO was founded in Shanghai June 15, 2001 by six countries -- China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgystan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
Zarddari made the remark during his meeting with Uzbek Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Berdiev Kabul Raimovich here.
The president said that historic and cultural affinities strengthen the ties of the two countries and Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the Uzbeks.
He said that besides expanding cooperation to fight militancy, Pakistan was also keen to enhance its trade with Uzbekistan.