News
Sunday, October 03, 2010
US backs civilian rule in Pakistan
* Obama’s press secretary says preservation of civilian leadership in Pakistan tremendously important
* Washington’s dialogue with both civilian, military leaders speaks of genuine partnership with countryWASHINGTON: The White House, describing Pakistan as a key US ally in the region, on Saturday reposed confidence in the country’s commitment to preserve democracy.
“Pakistan is an important strategic partner and a key ally to the US. We believe that the Pakistan government is committed to democracy and to the preservation of civilian leadership, obviously which we believe is tremendously important,” President Obama’s Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said.
Gibbs reaffirmed US support for Pakistan in dealing with floods and terrorist challenges, as he signalled disagreement with a question that the country may be nearing a point of crisis in the face of the unprecedented natural disaster, NATO missile strikes and media speculations about a change in the government.
“No, look, I would say, that obviously we are all understanding of – Pakistan is located in a dangerous neighbourhood. Obviously everybody understands the concerns that we have, and now the concerns that the Pakistanis have in dealing with terrorism in lawless areas,” the spokesman said.
“You mentioned a series of events. We will continue to work with our ally in ensuring we can do whatever is possible to assist them in their fight against terrorists that, again, not just threaten us, but threaten the existence of their own government in Pakistan,” Gibbs added.
The press secretary noted that Washington’s support in ensuring flood relief and recovery assistance for Islamabad had been an important aspect of bilateral ties.
“Obviously our government has done quite a bit in terms of aid and help in what had obviously been very tragic events. We understand that that is an important part of our bilateral relationship, ensuring assistance,” he said.
At the State Department, spokesman PJ Crowley expressed US support for the civilian government.
“We support the civilian government in Pakistan. We are working with Pakistan to increase the capacity and performance of this government. It will be important for a civilian government to demonstrate its value to the Pakistani people,” he said.
“The Pakistani people have made clear that they prefer a civilian government to dictatorship,” Crowley said in response to a question.
He said Washington’s dialogue with both the civilian and military leaders speaks of its genuine partnership with the country.
“Well, we do talk with General Kayani, General Pasha, Prime Minister Gilani and President Zardari. We do talk to Foreign Minister Qureshi and others as well. So we have a broad dialogue with the Pakistan government. app
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk