News
Monday, July 19, 2010
US support must be based on respect and trust: Zardari* President says isolated incidents of terrorism should not be allowed to derail dialogue g Urges speedy delivery of equipment to fight insurgency
Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Welcoming the US declarations of support to democracy as well as security and stability in Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday emphasised that the support must be based on mutual respect and trust.
Leading a high-level US delegation, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, called on President Asif Ali Zardari at the Presidency.Matters relating to the strategic dialogue between Pakistan and the US, bilateral relations, regional situation, fight against terrorism and mutual cooperation and assistance to Pakistan were discussed in the meeting.
President’s spokesman Farhatullah Babar said the president called for a focused and result-oriented strategic dialogue adding that issues relating to Pakistan’s energy needs were most important and needed to be dealt with urgently. Zardari said isolated incidents of terrorism should in no way be allowed to derail the dialogue for peace process.
The president said Pakistan needed assistance in stabilising its economy through investment promotion, overcoming the energy crisis, facilitation in getting market access, capacity-building of civilian institutions and investment in education and social sector as measures for a long-term fight against the terrorist mindset.
Equipment: He also urged for a speedy delivery of equipment to fight insurgency. Babar said the president called for pursuing a well-structured economic development agenda in Pakistan. Clinton expressed US determination to strengthen bilateral ties in energy, water, agriculture and trade development.
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk