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US says focused on Pakistan energy needs
WASHINGTON: The United States is focused on meeting Pakistan’s growing energy needs, the State Department said in remarks Wednesday which indicated Washington’s openness to the possibility of future civilian nuclear cooperation with the key South Asian ally.“We are focused on Pakistan’s energy needs. But as we said last week, right now, that does not include civilian nuclear energy,” Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs P J Crowley said in response to a question at the daily briefing.
The spokesman’s comments echoed the Obama Administration’s position on Islamabad’s quest for civilian nuclear deal since last month’s Strategic Dialogue between the two anti-terror allies.
Washington has not ruled out the idea of future cooperation in civilian nuclear field but currently is assisting Pakistan with power generation programs in other fields.
Crowley also reaffirmed US confidence in the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear assets.
“I’m not going to break any new ground here. I think various U.S. leaders have expressed confidence in the security of the Pakistani weapons,” the spokesman stated in response to questions by Indian journalists.
The State Department’s comments follow President Barack Obama’s firm expression of confidence this week in the security of Pakistani nuclear arsenal.
Courtesy www.Geo.tv