Clinton who is on a two day visit of Pakistan at the head of a high-level delegation, met with the President in a one on one and in a delegation meeting.
During one-on-one and the delegation level meeting, Clinton discussed a host of issues relating to Pak-US relations, fight against militancy, regional situation with particular reference to the situation obtaining in Afghanistan.
Zardari said that public criticism of Pakistan’s role undermines its common struggle against militancy in the region.
The President said that “our people and the leadership is among the first ones to fully realize and comprehend the threat posed by violent mindset which is bred on the premises of deprivation and fuelled by sense of inequality.”
Zardari listed the innumerable human sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in fight against militancy and extremism.
He said 30,000 innocent civilians along with 5,000 military and police officers laid their lives for the cause of securing their lands from the clutches of militant mind-set.
Clinton appreciated Pakistan’s contribution in promoting reconciliation. She said that US administration desired continued partnership with Pakistan.
She agreed with the President’s strong emphasis on promoting trade rather than aid as the vehicle for development cooperation and assured that the US administration was working to facilitate enhanced market access for Pakistani products.
Discussing situation in Afghanistan, the President reiterated that Pakistan supports all efforts for regional peace, prosperity and connectivity, based on existing realities of the region.
The President said Pakistan, being an immediate neighbour of Afghanistan had an abiding interest in peace, stability, security and prosperity of Afghanistan and will continue to support every effort in this regard.
Zardai said Pakistan supports Afghan-led and Afghan owned reconciliation process.
Clinton also appreciated the economic reform initiatives taken by Pakistan which involved making difficult decisions and tough choices.
Affirming US continued support for the democracy in Pakistan, she also applauded unanimous resolution adopted by All Parties Conference recently.
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"US-Pakistan committed to continued partnership"
Chugging along as merrily as the Pakistani Railways.