News
Monday, May 16, 2011
US-Pakistan relations at ‘critical moment’* Senator Kerry says there is some disturbing evidence against Pakistan
* Says US lawmakers have deep reservations over Pakistan’s commitment
* Meets Gen Kayani
KABUL: US Senator John Kerry said on Sunday that the US relationship with Pakistan was at a ‘critical moment’ because of the killing of al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden and that there were growing calls to cut aid to the country.
Kerry, chairman of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that although Pakistan had in the past sacrificed much in the battle against al Qaeda and its own domestic insurgency, the killing of bin Laden by US Navy SEALs near the capital had raised questions.
“We are at a moment where we have to resolve some very serious issues. This is not a moment for anything except very sober, serious discussion with an understanding that there is a lot at stake, there is no other way to put it. I think they understand that, we understand that,” Kerry said in the Afghan capital.
Kerry said that during a visit to Khost province, located on the eastern border with Pakistan, he was briefed on Taliban safe havens just across the frontier. The safe havens, mostly in the province of North Waziristan, are used to launch attacks against American, coalition and Afghan troops. The Pakistani military has so far not gone after the safe havens.
“Yes there are Taliban coming across the border,” Kerry said. “Yes, they are operating out of North Waziristan and other areas of the sanctuaries. And yes, there is some evidence of Pakistan government knowledge of some of these activities in ways that is very disturbing.
Kerry was to travel to Pakistan later Sunday for meetings with government and military officials.
Kerry said that “this is a critical moment in terms of the relationship with Pakistan” and said it was “fair to say that some of my colleagues in the House and Senate have deep reservations about whether or not Pakistan is committed to the same goals, or are prepared to be a full partner in pursing those goals.”
He added that there were calls for a “shift in the aid programme,” and that “unless there is an improvement in the current situation, I think it will be very difficult to argue to the American people that while some programmes are being cut, there ought to be additional funds allocated to the current confused situation.”
Although he lauded Pakistani help in the past, including allowing American intelligence personnel to operate in Pakistan, — which he said had helped the US track bin Laden — he also said he was concerned about some of their actions.
But he also said that bin Laden’s death may present a new opportunity for reconciliation with the Taliban in Afghanistan.
US Senator John Kerry met Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani at the General Headquarters on Sunday.
The visiting dignitary remained with the COAS for some time and discussed matters of mutual interest with special reference to post Abbottabad scenario. agencies
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk