Saturday, May 28, 2011

Sec. Clinton visits Pakistan


US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made a brief visit with top Pakistani officials on Friday to strengthen the alliance between the two countries after their relationship was strained following the unilateral raid of the American Special Forces that killed al Qaeda's leader in Abottabad on 2 May.
The US diplomat's surprise trip to Pakistani capital discussed with President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani its fight against terrorism, Dawn reported.
She also talked with army chief Ashfaq Kayani and the chief of Inter-Services Intelligence Ahmad Shuja Pasha.
The surprise and high security trip to the Asian country came with no public announcement. Clinton was accompanied by Adm. Michael Mullen, said The Washington Post.
Only one camera crew was allowed to briefly witness the greeting at the presidential palace. Sound recording was not permitted.
Clinton stated President Obama's "strong support for the relationship and our commitment to working with and support for Pakistan, and the recognition of the sacrifice that is made ... by your country” in fighting terrorism."
The top US official manifested Washington's and London's commitment to Islamabad. She recognized "the sacrifice that is made every single day by the men and women of your military and the citizens of your country."
Clinton also urged Pakistani officials for a probe on why Osama Bin Laden has been hiding in the country for so long. She also pushed for a solution against the decade-long war against the Talibans.
Both camps have doubted the other side after the solo attack of the US commandos.
The US thinks Bin Laden was receiving protection while Pakistan said it will review the American forces' activities in the country if a similar raid were to occur in the future.
Details of this story here.
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