Islamabad, Mar 18: The United States will name Pakistan as a major non-Nato ally, US Secretary of State Colin Powell said today. Powell made the announcement in the Pakistani capital Islamabad after talks with Foreign Minister Mahmud Kasuriand President Perez Musharraf. The designation of Pakistan as a major ally would strengthen defence co-operation between Islamabad and the US.
Powell also announced monetary aid of USD three billion to Pakistan.
Powell`s visit coincides with a Pakistani operation against al-Qaeda and Taleban supporters in the area bordering Afghanistan. Powell has praised Pakistan’s offensive against Taliban.
The status of "major non-Nato ally" would lift restrictions of weapon sales. Other such allies include Japan, Thailand, Kuwait, Egypt, Jordan and Israel. Powell paid tribute to Pakistan`s fight against terrorism. He said US President George W Bush appreciated the "sacrifices" made by security forces. Pakistan is the third country of Powell`s South Asian tour, following India and Afghanistan. He is also expected to raise the issue of nuclear proliferation. In February, the scientist seen as the father of Pakistan`s nuclear industry, Abdul Qadeer Khan, admitted selling nuclear secrets overseas. Pakistan denied any state involvement and pardoned A Q Khan.
Powell has said Washington will not be satisfied until the network responsible for the sales to Iran, Libya and North Korea is fully removed.
Bureau Report