News
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Munter meets BashirPak, US to remove ‘misunderstanding’
* US ambassador told to use diplomatic channels to sort out issues
* Bashir demands US share intelligence regarding Haqqani network
ISLAMABAD: US Ambassador to Pakistan Cameron Munter on Monday met Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir and both sides agreed to remove ‘misunderstanding’ and continue with the negotiation process in a bid to avoid the current relations from turning further worse, sources said.
There was no official word on the meeting but state-run television quoted a Foreign Office spokesperson as saying “Pakistan and US agreed to remove misunderstanding through close contacts and bilateral talks.”
During the meeting, Mike Mullen’s recent statements and the blame game came under discussion. The Foreign Office has urged the US to stop levelling baseless charges against Pakistan. Munter was also told to avoid using the media for sorting out the issues and instead resort to diplomatic channels. Salman Bashir also demanded sharing of intelligence regarding Haqqani network.
Munter said he would apprise his government of Pakistan’s point of view. The meeting comes as ties between both the allies are on a downward spiral following the US accusations of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) being linked with the Haqqani network. Underscoring the magnitude of tensions, Pakistani stocks ended nearly three percent lower on Monday following worsening relations between Islamabad and Washington, dealers said.
Analysts say the Pakistani military could suffer heavy casualties if it were to attempt a crackdown on the group, which has developed extensive alliances with other militant organisations in the region.
Widespread anti-American sentiment in Pakistan also makes it difficult for the army to cave in to US pressure. Pakistan has dismissed the US accusations and said these would only worsen the relationship between the two countries.
Separately, US Deputy Secretary of State for South Asia Robert Blake has said that there is a need to enhance ties with Pakistan and help its people who are facing political, economic and security problems. Talking to VOA on Monday, he said, “It is important for all of us to move forward and work together.”
He said, “We need to help people and government of Pakistan in resolving their political, economic and security problems and in fact it is the time to focus on these issues.” He said that Pakistan’s role in withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan is important and United States wants Pakistan on their side in the future strategy, as it is a valuable ally. agencies
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk