| GEO Pakistan | | Hillary Clinton calls on Zardari | Updated at: 0545 PST, Monday, July 19, 2010
 ISLAMABAD: Secretary of State Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton assured Pakistan of additional US support in addressing issues in energy, water and agriculture sectors on priority basis during the ongoing strategic dialogue.
Hillary Clinton who was leading a high level US delegation on Sunday evening called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
Matters relating to the strategic dialogue between Pakistan and the US, bilateral relations, regional situation, fight against militancy and mutual cooperation and assistance to Pakistan were discussed during the meeting.
Spokesperson to President Farhatullah Babar said that the President called for a focused and result oriented strategic dialogue adding that issues relating to Pakistan's energy needs were most important and needed to be dealt with urgently.
Other subjects that came under discussion during the talks included drone attacks, post-conflict rehabilitation of the affected areas, strengthening of the law enforcing agencies and the timely reimbursement of coalition support funds arrears.
Welcoming Ms. Clinton on her second visit to Pakistan in less than a year, the President said that her visit as part of the strategic dialogue was a manifestation of the deepening strategic ties between the two countries.
It was reassuring that the long term political and strategic partnership of their two countries was, as it had to be, based on mutual interest, common values and shared goals, the President said.
A durable and long lasting relationship must also be based on respect for democracy and sovereignty and a joint commitment to fight the forces of extremism and militancy, he added.
US Secretary of State Ms. Clinton thanked the President for the warm welcome extended to her during her visit. She appreciated the efforts being made by Pakistan for economic stability and poverty alleviation.
Saying that the Administration was conscious of the need for creating economic opportunity for the Pakistani people in their fight against militancy she reiterated US commitment to support the people of Pakistan to strengthening of democratic institutions for promoting stability and investment in energy, education and social sector.
She expressed determination to strengthen the ties between the two countries in all areas particularly in areas of energy, water, agriculture and trade development. |  |
|
ShareThis
