Thaindian News

ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN (BNO NEWS) – U.S. National Security Advisor General James L. Jones visited Pakistan to discuss, among other topics, security issues, the White House said.

During the meeting, several topics were discussed regarding U.S.-Pakistan relations, including the security situation in the region, the shared terrorist threat and fight against extremists, and the U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue.

The talks provided an opportunity to review progress on the many areas addressed in the recent strategic dialogue held in Washington, as General Jones reiterated the United States’ long-term commitment to the strategic partnership with Pakistan, including support for creating economic opportunity for the Pakistani people.

Trade, economic growth, and development were issues both countries expressed commitment to strengthening, as both parties agreed to continue frequent government-to-government contacts and further senior-level engagement in order to advance common interests and provide nationals with a better and more secure future.

General Jim Jones was accompanied by Director of Central Intelligence Agency Leon Panetta, U.S. Ambassador Anne Patterson, and other senior officials.

Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Foreign Minister Sha Mahmood Qureshi, Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani and Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir also attended the meeting to represent Pakistan.

President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the importance of a strong U.S.-Pakistan relationship on a call with General Jones on Wednesday, mentioning that militancy and terrorism was the common enemy.

The talks covered measures that both countries are, and will be, taking to confront the common threat from extremists and prevent such potential attacks from occurring again. Both parties acknowledged the extreme challenge of thwarting each and every plot and terrorist action, both sides pledged to intensify efforts, increase cooperation, and do everything possible to protect our citizens.

President Zardari noted that Pakistan desires a long-term, multifaceted, and durable relationship with the United States which no incident should be able to adversely impact.