ISLAMABAD, July 29 (NNN-APP) — Pakistan Saturday expressed disappointment over the draft bill adopted by the US Congress based on recommendations of the 9/11 Commission.
“Though the Bill emphasizes the importance attached by the United States to long-term strategic relationship with Pakistan, the references and provisions of the Bill cast shadow on the existing cooperation between the two countries,� Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasnim Aslam said in a statement issued here.
The Spokesperson said the Bill “is disappointing from Pakistan’s point of view� and added that inclusion of such references in the Bill cannot contribute to the trust that is necessary for the stated U.S. objective to establish a strategic relationship with Pakistan.
Ms. Tasnim said Pakistan rejected the allegations regarding existence of so-called terrorist “safe havens� or “proliferation networks� in Pakistan as these are unsubstantiated.
She said there are unwarranted comments in the Bill on Pakistan’s bilateral relations with Afghanistan as well as on the political process in Pakistan.
The Spokeswoman said conditionalities have been introduced for the continuation of U.S. security assistance to Pakistan that is primarily aimed at capacity building in counter-terrorism.
“This is reminiscent of the infamous Pressler Amendment that had deeply damaged the relationship between the two countries in the past,� she said.
The Foreign Office spokesperson said,�Pakistan had conveyed objections to the U.S. administration and the members of Congress at various stages in the evolution of the Bill in respect of creating any linkage between assistance and our counter-terrorism efforts.�
“Such a linkage did not serve the interest of bilateral cooperation in the past and it can prove to be detrimental in the future,� the spokesperson said.
Tasnim Aslam said, “Pakistan is fighting extremism and terrorism in its own national interest and in the pursuit of our vision of an economically vibrant, socially advanced and politically stable society.�
She said. “We are addressing these contemporary dangers comprehensively, sensitive to our circumstances and in accordance with what we consider to be the most effective approach.�
The spokesperson said,�We will continue to fight Al-Qaeda, Talibanisation and other terrorist and extremist elements with resolve and determination.�
She said that in dealing with this serious challenge, Pakistan expects understanding and support from its friends in the international community instead of pronouncements and impositions that doubt Pakistan’s efforts and will be resented by the people.�
Underlining the need for enhanced mutual cooperation, she said,�Pakistan and the United States must work in a cooperative framework that enhances mutual confidence and promotes important strategic relationship between the two countries considered vital for ensuring peace, security and development in the region.�