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U.S. DEPUTY SECRETARY OF STATE CALL ON THE PRESIDENT
While noting the holding of the second round of Pakistan-U.S. Strategic Dialogue, the President underscored the importance Pakistan attached to a broad-based, long-term and sustainable relationship with the U.S. The President pointed out that any elements that constraint the relationship, such as the negative provisions of 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act, must be avoided. The President reaffirmed Pakistan 's firm resolve to fight extremism and terrorism. He highlighted the efforts Pakistan was making to address these complex challenges and underlined that Pakistan's commitment should never be in doubt as it was in Pakistan's own national interest. The President elaborated the comprehensive strategy being followed in FATA, embracing military, political, administrative and development tracks. The President stressed the need for forward movement on initiatives such as the Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) and U.S. support for FATA Development Plan as well as FC capacity-building. The President also underscored the need for better understanding of Pakistan counter-terrorism efforts in the U.S., particularly the media. Deputy Secretary Negroponte underlined U.S. commitment to a long-term relationship with Pakistan. He said the U.S. fully recognised Pakistan's strong resolve to fight extremism and terrorism and appreciated its counter-terrorism efforts. He expressed appreciation for the multifaceted strategy being followed in FATA and noted that the U.S. had committed $750 million for the FATA Development Plan over the next five years. The Deputy Secretary conveyed that the Administration was moving forward on the draft ROZs legislation and mobilizing assistance for the FC. On regional issues, the President underlined the importance Pakistan attached to peace and stability in Afghanistan. He noted the positive outcome of the recent joint Afghanistan- Pakistan peace Jirga and stressed the importance of follow-up steps including the establishment of the smaller jirga and commencement of its work. With regard to the Pakistan-India Composite dialogue process, the President underscored the need for moving forward on resolving outstanding issues, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. Deputy Secretary John Negroponte is on a two-day visit to Pakistan. He co-chaired the second round of Pakistan-U.S. Strategic Dialogue with the Foreign Secretary on 12 September 2007.
13/09/2007 Islamabad
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U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John D. Negroponte called on President General Pervez Musharraf at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. Pakistan-U.S. relations, counter-terrorism, and regional issues were discussed during the meeting.