Visit of U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher to Islamabad

The visiting U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Mr. Richard Boucher, called on President General Pervez Musharraf at the Aiwan-e-Sadr today. During the meeting, Pakistan-U.S. relations and regional issues were discussed – with a particular focus on Afghanistan.

The President emphasized the strategic and multifaceted nature of the Pakistan-U.S. relationship and underscored the importance of steady development of cooperation in diverse fields. He further highlighted the importance of strong Pakistan-U.S. defence ties. Progress was reviewed on Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs), efforts to mobilize resources for FATA Sustainable Development Plan, and forging deeper trade and economic ties.

The President reaffirmed Pakistan 's unwavering commitment to fight extremism and terrorism, as part of Pakistan 's vision of a moderate, progressive and forward-looking country. In regard to Afghanistan, the President outlined the steps Pakistan was taking to help the stabilization and reconstruction processes. He emphasized that security along the border was a joint responsibility and that all sides must enhance coordination to promote security and stability. The President stressed that Pakistan would continue to work with its international partners to see a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan .

Assistant Secretary Boucher highlighted the importance the U.S. attached to its strategic partnership with Pakistan . He reiterated U.S. appreciation for Pakistan 's counter-terrorism efforts and for the coordination between the two countries in this regard. He commended the contribution of Pakistan towards building peace and stabilization in Afghanistan.

Islamabad

12 January 2007