Pakistan, US to strengthen bilateral coop
By Muhammad Ali Malik

RAWALPINDI—Pakistan and United States of America have expressed the desire to further consolidate and strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of common interests.
This was discussed at a meeting between Minister for Defence, Ch. Ahmad Mukhtar, and US Ambassador to Pakistan Ms.Anne W.Patterson who called on the Minister here Monday.
Both the sides exchanged views on matters of bilateral importance and underscored the need for building a strategic partnership so as to overcome the challenges being confronted by the international community.
Congratulating the Minister upon assuming the charge of the office, the Us Ambassador said that the United States was keen to build strategic partnership with Pakistan and further improve bilateral ties for the mutual benefits of the two sides.
The Minister briefed the envoy about the efforts made by Pakistan for the promotion of peace and stability in the region. He also highlighted the counter-terrorism measures taken by Pakistan.
He informed the envoy that terrorism was threatening the global peace and stability and it was essential to address the root causes of extremism and terrorism so as to get rid of this menace once for all.
The American Ambassador deeply appreciated the contribution and the key role played by the security forces of Pakistan against the war on terror. The situation of Federal Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) also came under discussion at the meeting.
The Minister said that the present environment over there was conducive and efforts were being made to seek the solution of the problem through negotiation and dialogue.
Ambassador of United Arab Emirates to Pakistan Ali Mohammed bin Hammad Al-Shamsi, also called on Minister for Defence and discussed with him matters of mutual interest.
The Minister told the envoy that Pakistan attached greater importance to its ties with UAE as the two countries enjoyed excellent relationship which is based on common faith, cultural values and commonality of perceptions on regional and international issues.