Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton today said the United States and Pakistan will collaborate to defeat violent extremism in the region.
“United States and Pakistan have been friends for a very long time. We have a relationship that is rooted in mutual respect and mutual interests, so there is always a lot to talk about. But this was an especially important visit because we have reached a turning point. Usama bin Ladin is dead, but al-Qaida and its syndicate of terror remain a serious threat to us both.”Ms. Clinton
According to Ms. Clinton, there is momentum toward political resolution in Afghanistan. She underscored the insurgency continues to operate from safe havens in Pakistan. She said the Pakistani people are standing bravely for their democracy and their future. She warned that the country continues to face enormous economic, political, and security challenges.
Ms. Clinton highlighted that the United States has been clear and consistent about its expectations for their relationship.
She stated that the United States have robust interests in the region and it is pursuing them vigorously.
“These are not uniquely American aims. We believe that Pakistanis pursue the same goals and share the same hopes. We seek to defeat violent extremism, end the conflict in Afghanistan, and ensure a secure, stable, democratic, prosperous future for Pakistan. And we expect to work closely with the government and the people of Pakistan to achieve those ends.”-Ms. Clinton
Ms. Clinton said the United States will work with Pakistan for the fight against violent extremism. She highlighted that the past decade, many of the world’s most vicious terrorists, including al-Qaida’s most important leaders, have been living in Pakistan. She said they have targeted innocent people all over the world. The terrorists have killed women and children, blown up mosques and markets, and shown no regard for human life.
Ms. Clinton said the United States and Pakistan have worked together to capture many of the terrorists on Pakistani soil. She stressed that this could not have been done without close cooperation between their governments, their militaries, and their intelligence agencies.
