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Islamabad: Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar met US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton last night for three and half hours. The two Ministers held in-depth exchange of views on all aspects of bilateral relations, regional and international issues.
The talks were marked by the desire to deepen understanding and by candour. They were constructive and forward looking. The need for clarity and coherence was emphasized. It was also agreed to re-set relations and to endeavour to overcome “perceptional” issues.
The meeting was multi dimensional and covered all aspects of the bilateral relationship. Issues of economic development, cooperation in energy and infrastructure development as well as effective delivery to the people were emphasized.
The issue of ROZ legislation was also raised. Foreign Minister Khar underscored the fact that the relationship was not aid dependent and that the focus should be on enhancing trade between the two countries.
Both sides agreed on the importance of fighting terrorism and terrorist outfits wherever they were. This required coordinated action.
Foreign Minister Khar stressed that the onus of responsibility of effectively countering terrorism must be shared by all. Areas that harbour terrorists on the other side of the border from where attacks are launched on Pakistani men, women and children must be dealt pro-actively. It was agreed that both sides need to coordinate their counter-terrorism effort to be able to achieve results.
Foreign Minister Khar emphasized to Secretary of State Clinton that Pakistan needs to be assisted by the world at large for the unique role it has played. Ordinary Pakistanis must feel that their sacrifice is being recognized.
Pakistanis longstanding request for greater market access must be viewed as a step towards targeting the root cause of terrorism by providing economic opportunities that limit terrorist outreach to vulnerable populations. The meeting provided the opportunity for good substantive discussions on all issues.
For more information, contact:
Syed Haider Ali Jafri
Personal Secretary
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Government of Pakistan
Tel: +9251 921 0335 and 9056604