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Pakistan’s success is America’s success: Clinton
WASHINGTON: Pakistan and the United States on Wednesday expressed their resolve to foster a mutually beneficial durable partnership, with US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton affirming the beginning of a “new phase” in bilateral ties since Washington sees its key regional ally’s struggles as America’s struggles.At the start of the first ever ministerial level strategic dialogue, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi underlined that Pakistan-US partnership is not only in the interest of both the nations but also for regional and world peace.
“Pakistan has been a victim of foreign-sponsored sabotage,” Qureshi pointed out.
For her part, the chief US diplomat recognized Pakistan’s critical role in the anti-terror fight and in the context of regional security perspective. She particularly noted the sacrifices Pakistan has been making in the anti-militancy struggle in the high-stakes region, where President Obama seeks a successful outcome of the Afghan war.Qureshi said Islamabad hopes to have “non-discriminatory access to vital energy resources” as it struggles to overcome gruelling power shortages. Secretary Clinton recognized the need for cooperation with Pakistan in helping it deal with water and energy shortages.
“Pakistan seeks peaceful resolution of all disputes in South Asia including Kashmir,” he said and hoped the US will play its constructive role to encourage this process.
The foreign minister said Pakistan is committed to regional peace and stability and security in Afghanistan.Opening the strategic dialogue, Clinton said the Obama Administration is committed to Pakistan’s security and stability.
“I am committed to success of this dialogue.” “This is a new day. For the past year, the Obama Administration has shown in our words and deeds a different approach and attitude towards Pakistan,” she stated in reference to wide-ranging contacts.
“Pakistan stands on the forefront of fight against violent extremism,” she stated, adding the outcome of the fight against terrorism will be very important.
“There are sure to be more disagreements in the future, as there are between any friends or, frankly, any family members,” Clinton said.
“The dialogue we seek is not only with the government of Pakistan, but you the people of Pakistan,” she said.
President Barack Obama, she added, has a “personal commitment” to building close cooperative ties with Pakistan.
Hillary Clinton acknowledged that Pakistan’s efforts and sacrifices in the endeavor to rid the region of dangerous militants. She noted that the ongoing fight has seen the loss of thousand of its soldiers and innocnent civilians as it combats terrorists.Clinton praised the efforts of Pakistani army in combating Taliban militants and the commitment of the democratically elected government to fight the menace of militancy.
Courtesy www.Geo.tv