Islamabad: The US-led NATO forces in Afghanistan must stop violating Pakistan's airspace as it adversely impacts the country's efforts in the war on terrorism, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said today.

Gilani made the remark during a meeting with Belgian Foreign Minister Karel De Guelt on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Istanbul. They discussed matters of mutual interest and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation.

They discussed regional and global issues, particularly the problem of terrorism and extremism faced by Pakistan and Afghanistan.

 NATO forces in Afghanistan "must stop violating Pakistan s airspace as it is counter-productive and negatively impacts the country s efforts in the war against terrorism", Gilani was quoted as saying in an official statement.

In the past few months, US drones operating from Afghanistan have carried out dozens of strikes in Pakistan s restive tribal areas, described by Western nations as a safe haven for the Taliban and al-Qaeda. Pakistan has angrily protested against the attacks, calling them a violation of its sovereignty. Pakistan, being a "frontline state in the war against terror", is paying a heavy price, Gilani said.

Pakistan is also facing socio-economic and law and order problems due to providing shelter to over two million Afghan refugees in its territory, he added. Gilani called on the world community to fully cooperate with Pakistan in its efforts in the war on terrorism.

He said a prosperous Pakistan is "a must for the peace and prosperity of the world". De Guelt extended condolences to Gilani over the loss of lives and damage to property by the devastating earthquake in Balochistan.

Source : PTI