Pakistan summons British envoy

During Monday’s talks Qureshi “emphasised that terrorism was a global issue and had to be dealt with by all countries in a spirit of co-operation”, a statement by the foreign ministry said.

It added that Thompson was “looking forward to further strengthening its strategic relations with Pakistan”.

Senior political figures, including Pakistan’s prime minister, voiced anger over the comments, which also led to protesters burning an effigy of Cameron in the streets of Karachi.

Zardari trip

Pakistan’s information minister said Asif Ali Zardari, the Pakistani president, would correct Cameron’s “misperception” when they meet in the UK on Tuesday.

“The president of Pakistan will explain and have a dialogue and good discussion and he will explain the facts to the new government over here,” Qamar Zama Kaira said.

“We hope that the new leadership over here, when they get the exact picture, will agree with us.”

Zardari held talks with Nicolas Sarkozy, the French president, at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Monday, ahead of his visit to Britain.

“France feels that Pakistan is a responsible partner with them in the world,” said Zardari, adding that Sarkozy had said he would visit Pakistan later in the year.

The Pakistani leader did not directly address the argument with the UK, and a senior French official, briefing journalists after the private meeting on condition of anonymity, said the issue did not come up.