Pakistan Discusses Regional Peace and Stability With US

The USA deputy secretary of state appreciated the role of Pakistan in reconciliation process between the Afghan government and the Taliban. The two reviewed the state of economic cooperation and USAID work and assistance projects in Pakistan.

US Senate’s Armed Services Committee Chairman Senator John McCain – during a meeting with Pakistan’s Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi – has assured to stand with Pakistan to eliminate terrorism.

The SAPM expressed deep appreciation for the USAID’s contribution to socio economic development of Pakistan. Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US Jalil Abbas Jilani accompanied him, whereas Dan Feldman, US Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, assisted Blinken.

Fatemi, now on an official visit to the United States, is meeting senior Administration officials and members of the US Congress.

Fatemi, on the other hand, reiterated Prime Minister Sharif’s intention of maintaining cordial relations with all countries, including its neighbours.

The special assistant also met with USAID Acting Administrator Alfonso Lenhardt in Washington on Tuesday during which the United States reaffirmed its commitment to help Pakistan in overcoming energy crisis.

It said the special assistant and the Deputy Secretary expressed satisfaction over the growing momentum and positive trajectory of the relations between Pakistan and the US.

“Energy, economic growth, stabilisation, education and health are the five priorities of USAID’s programme in the country”, Lenhardt added.

Fatemi also briefed the Deputy Secretary of State about the ongoing law enforcement operations in FATA, aimed at securing Pakistani soil from all militants.

Tony Blinken’s remarks came at a time when the Indian Army was continuing violating the 2003 Ceasefire Agreement on the Line of Control (LoC) with Indian Army’s Lieutenant General KH Singh upping the ante on Monday while warning “certain elements in Pakistan” of “unexpected damages”.