Acknowledging Pakistan’s sacrifices the United States said on Friday that both the countries needed to “redouble efforts” to counter extremism and terrorism. Terming the “al-Qaida syndicate” still a threat after the killing of its leader Osama bin Laden, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said: “The United States and Pakistan have worked together to kill and capture many terrorists on the Pakistani soil.” She said it could not have been possible without the close cooperation between the two governments.
Secretary Clinton, who was on a day-long whirlwind trip to Pakistan following the May 2 military operation by the US troops to kill the top al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, also acknowledged the sacrifices the country had made in the “war against terror.”
“No nation has suffered more than the Pakistanis,” said Secretary Clinton, who was flanked by Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen.
The two were talking to newsmen at the US Embassy here at the end of meetings with the top Pakistani civil and military leadership.
She assured full support of the United States to Pakistan in “the long haul”.
“We will continue to support Pakistan’s sovereignty, civilian elected government and its people, ... but Pakistan has to solve its problems itself,” she said.
She said her country desired a strong, democratic and stable Pakistan but pointed out that it was important for the people of Pakistan to choose what type of country they wish to live in. “Hard choices” need to be made for a better future, she added.
“We have to disrupt, dismantle, defeat and destroy al-Qaeda from Pakistan and the region.”
“We will do our part and look to Pakistan for decisive steps in the days ahead,” Secretary Clinton said.
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