Days after the U.S.-Pak Strategic Dialogue, the Presidents of both the nations, during a telephonic conversation, agreed to do more in combating threats posed by terrorists in Pakistan.
U.S. President Barack Obama on Tuesday called up his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari to discuss the results of the third round of Strategic Dialogue, held between the two countries in Washington early this week.
“Both President Obama and President Zardari acknowledged that more work needed to be done to address the direct threat to our countries posed by terrorist groups in Pakistan,” a White House statement said.
“They also agreed that the U.S. and Pakistan have worked hard to build an atmosphere of trust and cooperation, and committed to ongoing efforts to build a stronger, strategic, and more collaborative U.S.-Pakistan relationship,” the statement said.
Mr. Obama emphasised U.S.’ commitment and support for democracy and transparency in Pakistan, highlighting Washington and Islamabad share an interest in ensuring democratic traditions in Pakistan are strengthened, it stated.
“He also acknowledged Pakistan’s economic difficulties, and encouraged President Zardari to work to pass key economic reforms, such as tax reform and containing energy subsidies,” White House said, adding that Mr. Obama concluded the call by conveying his intention to visit Pakistan in 2011 and personally welcomed Mr. Zardari to visit the U.S. in the coming year.
The White House said the call was made by Mr. Obama to consult with Mr. Zardari on the progress made during the recent U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, and to reinforce Washington’s commitment to partner with Pakistan on economic, development, and governance priorities.
