ID :
11571
Sat, 07/05/2008 - 11:26
Auther :
Shortlink :
http://m.oananews.org//node/11571
The shortlink copeid
Pakistan wants enhanced strategic relationship with U.S.
Islamabad, July 5 PPI: Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Friday said frequent visits by United States Congressional delegations to Pakistan is reflective of U.S. support for newly elected government in the country.
Talking to visiting U.S. Congressional delegation, he said ``we want to want to
deepen, enhance strategic relationship with U,S. in all fields especially trade,
investment, energy sectors.''
Gilani said there is also need to enhance cooperation in counter terrorism efforts
by exchange of information, sharing intelligence to enable Pakistan to take timely,
prompt action against terrorists. ``The supply of sophisticated intelligence assets
will enhance our capacity to take action against terrorists on its own soil.''
He said his government took concrete steps to pave way for restoration of deposed
judges by freeing them, paying their salaries and increasing strength of Supreme
Court from 16 to 29 judges. As soon as modalities are sorted out, judges will be
restored through a constitutional package.
Being immediate neighbour of Afghanistan, Pakistan has vital interest and direct
stake in its stability. Without stability in the region, its vast potential of
economic development, cooperation will remain untapped.
``We are making all efforts to prevent cross border infiltration by installing
biometric system on entry points, establishing 900 checkposts on border compared to
100 checkposts on Afghan side of border which needs to be increased at least to
Pakistan's level. Border fencing is another option being considered by the
government. I am for greater interaction, political dialogue between Pakistan and
Afghanistan so that they can coordinate strategies to face common threats.''
Gilani said repatriation and resettlement of three million Afghan refugees in
Afghanistan will help reduce illegal movements on the border. World community needs
to help resettle refugees in their homeland.
He said elimination of poppy from Pakistan was achieved by providing economic
alternatives to people. Today 70% of poppy is produced in Afghanistan. The same
strategy needs to be adopted there to wean people away from extremism.
The delegation congratulated him on induction of democratic government in Pakistan,
which will strengthen partnership between two countries. Congress would extend full
support to democratic government.
ENDS PPI.
Talking to visiting U.S. Congressional delegation, he said ``we want to want to
deepen, enhance strategic relationship with U,S. in all fields especially trade,
investment, energy sectors.''
Gilani said there is also need to enhance cooperation in counter terrorism efforts
by exchange of information, sharing intelligence to enable Pakistan to take timely,
prompt action against terrorists. ``The supply of sophisticated intelligence assets
will enhance our capacity to take action against terrorists on its own soil.''
He said his government took concrete steps to pave way for restoration of deposed
judges by freeing them, paying their salaries and increasing strength of Supreme
Court from 16 to 29 judges. As soon as modalities are sorted out, judges will be
restored through a constitutional package.
Being immediate neighbour of Afghanistan, Pakistan has vital interest and direct
stake in its stability. Without stability in the region, its vast potential of
economic development, cooperation will remain untapped.
``We are making all efforts to prevent cross border infiltration by installing
biometric system on entry points, establishing 900 checkposts on border compared to
100 checkposts on Afghan side of border which needs to be increased at least to
Pakistan's level. Border fencing is another option being considered by the
government. I am for greater interaction, political dialogue between Pakistan and
Afghanistan so that they can coordinate strategies to face common threats.''
Gilani said repatriation and resettlement of three million Afghan refugees in
Afghanistan will help reduce illegal movements on the border. World community needs
to help resettle refugees in their homeland.
He said elimination of poppy from Pakistan was achieved by providing economic
alternatives to people. Today 70% of poppy is produced in Afghanistan. The same
strategy needs to be adopted there to wean people away from extremism.
The delegation congratulated him on induction of democratic government in Pakistan,
which will strengthen partnership between two countries. Congress would extend full
support to democratic government.
ENDS PPI.
