Islamabad, Dec 9 (IANS): Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif here on Wednesday has called for a collective approach to combat the menace of extremism and terrorism.

Sharif made the remarks while inaugurating Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process ministerial conference along with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani.

Afghanistan is more than a neighbour for Pakistan as both the countries have historic, cultural and religious affinities, Radio Pakistan quoted Sharif as saying.

Sharif also said that Pakistan will always stand by Afghanistan, and the international community respects the sovereignty and integrity of the country.

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is in Islamabad to attend the Afghanistan-related conference which aims to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan and strengthening regional economic cooperation and connectivity.

Later in the day, she will hold bilateral meetings with Nawaz Sharif and his advisor on national security affairs Sartaj Aziz.