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| | GEO Pakistan | | No state institution involved in terrorism: FO | Updated at: 0709 PST, Friday, January 02, 2009
 ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday hit out strongly at the criticism that some elements in the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) were involved in acts of terrorism and were not in control of the government.
“Pakistan’s government and state institutions are committed to the war against terror. Therefore, vilifying Pakistan or for that matter any of its state institutions on this score is unwarranted and unacceptable. In Pakistan’s view, in the given situation, what is needed is more accurate alignment in the perception and interests of Afghanistan, Pakistan, US/Nato and countries in the region that have stakes in the struggle against terrorism.
It will be helpful to win the war against terror besides dispelling mutual misgivings among them. We have enhanced our engagement with all concerned,” said the spokesman at the Foreign Office at an online media briefing.
The spokesman took exception to charges of any terrorist infrastructure on the Pakistani soil. “There is no terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. Terrorism is a global issue. Terrorist elements are found in every society and religion. Pakistan, India and other countries of the region need to follow a cooperative, and not accusatory, approach to jointly deal with this menace,” he said.
The spokesman said Pakistan as a responsible state was taking all requisite steps to counter terrorism. The international community recognises and appreciates the sacrifices made by Pakistan in combating terrorism.
“As for the reprehensible Mumbai terror attacks, Pakistan is ready to cooperate with India in investigating the incident. We are awaiting a response from the Indian side to our proposals. Both countries should work together to prevent acts of terrorism in the region. This pernicious phenomenon requires international cooperation at every level,” he pointed out.
The spokesman, in reply to a query, said it would be unfortunate if a military confrontation took place. “War or any level of military confrontation can have disastrous consequences for the region. Pakistan will not accept political or military coercion.
Although we have made it clear that Pakistan stands ready to take every possible step to defend itself, we have counselled and exercised restraint and responsibility,” he replied. Referring to the recent visit of Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister He Yafei, the special envoy of his government, the spokesman said he conveyed China’s commitment to working towards reducing tension between Pakistan and India and resolving the outstanding issues through consultation and cooperation. |  |
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