LONDON: Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf and British Prime Minister David Cameron on Tuesday discussed matters of mutual interest and ways to enhance trade relations between the two countries.

The two leaders held the meeting here at the 10 Downing Street - the official residence of Prime Minister Cameron, on the invitation of the latter, and reiterated their desire to further strengthen bilateral bonds and cooperation in diverse areas.

Earlier Prime Minister Pervez Ashraf reached 10 Downing Street along with other members of the Pakistani delegation during his official visit.

The British prime minister came out from his official residence to receive Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf. Both leaders shook hands and then later proceeded for talks.

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf was assisted by other members of the delegation including Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar and Pakistan High Commissioner to UK Wajid Shamsul Hassan during the meeting.

Thanking the British Prime Minister for his keen interest and proactive role on the issue of Afghanistan, Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf reiterated that Pakistan desires a peaceful and stable Afghanistan.

"Pakistan is working closely with Afghan High Peace Council so that all stakeholders are on board and the steps taken, are beneficial and reinforcing," he said.

The prime minister stressed the need to build up the Afghan security forces during the transition period so that they can take up responsibilities.

During the talks, the British prime minister reiterated “your friends are our friends, and your enemies are our enemies”.

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf thanked the British premier for his country's support on the issue of securing GSP plus status for Pakistan from the EU countries.

He also appreciated the assistance being extended by the United Kingdom in the development of health and education sectors in Pakistan.

Expressing satisfaction over bilateral relations between the two countries, both the leaders expressed confidence that they looked forward to a far greater cooperation during transition in Afghanistan.

Raja Pervez Ashraf apprised David Cameron of the investment opportunities in Pakistan and the economic reforms and policies initiated by his government to facilitate investors by providing a conducive environment.

The British prime minister commenting on improving ties between India and Pakistan, observed that “there was need to open market to harvest economic bonuses”.

Raja Pervez Ashraf said that Britain has proved it to be a friend of democratic Pakistan.

David Cameron, hailing the recently concluded trilateral meeting, said that Pakistan's role was constructive and he would be visiting Pakistan this summer to carry the process forward.