Pakistani president stresses Pak-U.S. consultations based on mutual respect

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari underscored the importance of enhanced consultations between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect, sovereignty and interests, local media reported on Friday. He was talking to U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton who met him at the Presidency. During the one-on-one and delegation-level meetings, the two sides discussed a host of issues relating to Pak-U.S. relations, fight against militancy, and regional situation with particular reference to the situation in Afghanistan. He said some criticism of Pakistan's role undermines its common struggle against militancy in the region. He said, "Our people and the leadership is among the first ones to fully realize and comprehend the threat posed by violent mindset which is bred on the premises of deprivation and fuelled by sense of inequality." The President counted innumerable human sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in fight against militancy and extremism. He said 30,000 innocent civilians along with 5,000 military and police officers laid their lives for the cause of securing their lands from the clutches of militancy. Discussing situation in Afghanistan, the President reiterated that Pakistan supports all efforts for regional peace, prosperity and connectivity, based on realities of the region. The President said Pakistan, being the immediate neighbor, has abiding interest in the peace, stability, security and prosperity of Afghanistan and will continue to support every effort in this regard. He said besides being in close vicinity, Pakistan and Afghanistan share many issues of similar nature making Pakistan affected directly by any development across the border. Clinton said she appreciated Pakistan's contribution in promoting reconciliation process in Afghanistan. She said that U.S. administration desired continued partnership with Pakistan. She agreed with the President's strong emphasis on promoting trade rather than aid as the vehicle for cooperation and assured that the U.S. government was working to facilitate enhanced market access for Pakistani products. Clinton also appreciated the economic reform initiatives taken by Pakistan which involved making difficult decisions and tough choices. Affirming U.S. continued support for democracy in Pakistan, she also applauded unanimous resolution adopted by All Parties Conference recently.