Spokesperson's remarks on Pakistan's efforts in the war on terror

When asked to comment on the reported statement by US Director National Intelligence John Negroponte that Al-Qaeda was still operative in Pakistan, the Spokesperson said that in breaking the back of Al-Qaeda, Pakistan has done more than any other country in the world. This has been appreciated by the international community including the US leadership. It is also a fact that there are Al-Qaeda elements active in the Middle East, North Africa and Europe, as Mr. Negroponte has said but it would be incorrect to link them to any remnants of Al-Qaeda in Pakistan . On its part, Pakistan continues to pursue these remnants as well as other terrorists and extremist elements. We are addressing this challenge first and foremost in the interest of our security and peace and development of our society. As part of international coalition against terrorism, our efforts are also helping the international community to counter this grave danger. When Mr. Negroponte mentions the capture and killing of hundreds of Al-Qaeda members since 9/11, he should acknowledge the efforts of the country that made this possible.

Pakistan remains committed to fighting international terrorism and extremism. In this endeavour, the focus must always remain on cooperation instead of questionable criticism. In this context, we have noted the positive statement by head of International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan (ISAF) yesterday that Pakistan 's help has been crucial in containing insurgency in Afghanistan and ISAF has been the beneficiary of strong actions taken by Pakistan.

Islamabad

12 January 2007