ISLAMABAD: Urging the need for financial support from US, President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday made it clear that a handful of extremists cannot make the country hostage at any cost.
President Zardari expressed these views during a meeting with US congressional delegation in Aiwan-e-Sadr on Monday.
The delegation comprised Representatives John F. Tierney, George Miller, Chris Van Hollen, Chris Welch, Christopher Murphy and Ron Kind.
A. Rehman Malik, Advisor to PM on Interior, Shaukat Tarin, Finance Advisor, Nawabzada Malik Amad Khan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Anne W. Patterson, US Ambassador in Pakistan were also present in the meeting.
Sources told Online that a host of issues including war against terror, US drone attacks, bilateral relations and regional situation was discussed in depth in the meeting.
Sources said, the President made it clear to them that Pakistan has paid a heavy price in terms of life and property after becoming ally in the war against terrorism.
He made them realise that the war could not be won without the financial support of US.
Sources said the President pointed out that situation in Swat was not encouraging, adding "we have will and ability to fight out terrorists and we will use the strategy of minimum collateral damage."
President said US must immediately stop drone attacks "as they are proving counterproductive," adding US must safeguard the interests of Pakistan in war against terrorism.
He told the delegation that he anticipates that US President Barrack Obama to take positive measures regarding Pakistan's problems.
Meanwhile Chief Minister NWFP Amir Haider Khan Hoti also met President Asif Ali Zardari.
Hoti briefed President on various issues relating to security situation in Swat, government steps and others, sources say.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his assurance that government will not hold talks with miscreants
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