The United States will extend unconditional co-operation to Pakistan in its endeavours to reform the economy and attain regional peace, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif said in an exclusive interview with APP after wide-ranging talks with President Obama at the White House. Ties between Pakistan and the US have reached new heights compared to what they were two years ago, the Prime Minister said, adding that his visit to the United States on the invitation of President Obama will further strengthen these relations.
"We were assured full co-operation in our endeavors for economic reforms and security in the region without any condition and pressure," said the Prime Minister, who emerged fully satisfied with his talks with the US President that recognised the importance of resolving all outstanding disputes with India, including the core Kashmir dispute. All the speculations about Pakistan's nuclear program and the burning issue of Kashmir proved wrong.
Expressing satisfaction over his interaction with President Obama and his top aides, Prime Minister Sharif said that Pakistan provided evidence and effectively conveyed the Obama administration its concern over the involvement of India's subversive activities to destabilise the country. Those who met Prime Minister during his three-day visit included secretaries of all major departments, including Foreign Affairs, Defence, Energy, in addition to important congressional committees. "There was substance and credibility in our point of view."
"We were able to present our point of view clearly which was appreciated by the United States as it commended our efforts for economic reforms, to promote peace in the region and combating terrorism." According to the informed sources, in his one-on-one talks with the Prime Minister, President Obama spoke about the time he spent in Pakistan and said that he had a special affection for Pakistan and he considers the country a good friend of the United States.
President Obama assured to do the best to further strengthen Pakistan-US ties during his tenure of presidency, the sources said. The two leaders also discussed co-operation in various economic fields with the United States assuring full support to helping Pakistan overcome the energy crisis and take steps to ensure greater market access for Pakistani products in the US market.