ISLAMABAD – Pakistan and the United States plan to conduct “structureddialogue” very soon, Minister of Interior Ahsan Iqbal said early Fridaymorning here during a press conference.”We do not want dollars; we would rather extend an alliance based on mutualrespect,” he added, saying Pakistan hopes for a “friendly, respectful”relationship.
Iqbal went on to say it was not acceptable to Pakistan that the US’security requisites are met but Islamabad’s concerns are ignored.
The US cannot hamper Pakistan’s economic relief, Iqbal added.
“We want recognition of Pakistan’s efforts in the war against terrorism.”
Commenting on South Asia’s strategic issues, the minister mentioned thatregional autonomy should be understood and respected. He explained thatPakistan and Afghanistan are closely linked to each other and will continueto be.
Islamabad and Washington, therefore, can together play a pivotal role inAfghanistan and the related peace process.
Further, in response to a question about a hearing that US Senator JohnSullivan attended, Iqbal said, “it was acknowledged that Pakistan and itsrelations with Afghanistan are both a critical part of the peace process inAfghanistan.”
“Without better linkages, it (peace process) will not be successful. Forpeace in Afghanistan, US-Pak need to be restrengthened.”
Iqbal also highlighted that terrorism is a disease that affects peoplearound the world, which is why the global fraternity must come together tofight it.
“Terrorists are terrorists”, no matter which side of the border they areon, he said, referring to the US’ claim that senior leadership of theAfghan Taliban has taken refuge in Pakistan.
“Share intel on terrorists; we are ready to conduct operations,” hestressed.