By IANS,
Islamabad : Visiting US National Security Advisor Gen. James L. Jones said his country was committed to a long-term partnership with Pakistan.
Jones made the remarks after meeting top Pakistani civilian and military officials in the past two days.
His two-day visit to the country focused on implementing President Barak Obama’s “comprehensive regional engagement strategy while strengthening the US-Pakistan relationship”, a statement issued by the American embassy here said.
“The United States is committed to a long-term partnership between the American and Pakistani governments and people. The two countries are enhancing cooperation in the areas of trade, energy, and economic development to help Pakistanis face the challenges posed by extremists,” the statement said quoting Jones.
“Terrorism is not simply the enemy of America – it is a direct and urgent threat to the Pakistani people,” he said.
During his visit, Jones met Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Chief of Army Staff Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, as well as provincial and federal government officials to discuss the current challenges facing Pakistan and coordinate efforts in implementing the new shared comprehensive strategy, the Online news agency reported Friday.
The US official also discussed the humanitarian situation of the displaced Pakistanis as well as his country’s assistance in the relief work.
Jones’ visit to Pakistan was part of a three-country tour that also includes Afghanistan and India.