Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf
Raza Gilani on Thursday said Islamabad wants to have "excellent
relations with US" and said both countries along with Kabul
need to be "on the same page" in efforts aimed at boosting
national reconciliation and stability in war-torn Afghanistan.
Gilani emphasized the need for a "mutually acceptable
strategy to achieve shared goals" during a meeting with a
visiting US Congressional delegation.
A "military solution does not provide a permanent
solution", he remarked.
"It was important that Afghanistan, Pakistan and US were
on the same page and worked together to promote mutually
national reconciliation, peace and stability in Afghanistan,"
Gilani was quoted as saying in a statement issued by his
office.
Pakistan supports "the political process leading to
political settlement in Afghanistan" and this was discussed in
details with Afghan President Hamid Karzai during his recent
visit to Islamabad, he said.
Gilani conveyed his government`s "serious concerns" about
a resolution tabled by a Congressman in the US House of
Representatives seeking the right to self-determination for
Balochistan and said the people "expect the US to be mindful
and respectful of Pakistan?s national interests" as well as
its security and territorial integrity.
The resolution tabled by Congressman Dana Rohrabacher has
emerged as the latest irritant in Pakistan-US ties which have
been affected by a series of crises since last year.
Gilani had earlier described the resolution as an attack
on Pakistan`s sovereignty.
Gilani said Pakistan wants to have "excellent relations
with US" and it was important to forge a partnership based on
mutual interest and mutual respect.
PTI
