US lacks appreciation of Pakistan's counter-terror efforts, says Fatemi

Special assistant to PM meets two-member delegation of US Congress' House Foreign Affairs Committee

Special Assistant to the prime minister Tariq Fatemi highlighted on Monday the United States' lack of “sufficient appreciation for Pakistan's whole-hearted efforts” against counter-terrorism.

A two-member Professional Staff delegation of the House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC) of the US Congress called on Fatemi, said a Foreign Office statement.

The adviser asserted the US should appreciate Pakistan’s efforts in challenging the complex issues faced by the country.

The meeting comes just days after the United States halted financial aid to Pakistan for procurement of its eight F-16 fighter jets.



Topics concerning reduction in US defence and civilian assistance to Pakistan, and Congressional hold on some already approved funds were also deliberated upon.

Fatemi said Pakistan, under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, had taken a clear lead in strengthening its relations with neighbouring countries, with the objective to achieve regional stability and peace through enhanced economic linkages, connectivity and cooperation.

“Pakistan has shown utmost sincerity, in difficult circumstances, in taking action against all terror outfits in the country, for improvement of its relations with India, as well as to contribute positively in the ongoing peace process in Afghanistan.”



The delegation was also briefed about Pakistan’s continued and sincere efforts, together with the US, China and Afghanistan to promote peace in Afghanistan through an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led process.

The delegation noted that the US recognised Pakistan’s efforts in addressing various challenges, according to the Foreign Office.

It reiterated the steps taken by the US to strengthen Pakistan’s capacity in its counter-terrorism efforts, through continued provision of military equipment and assistance with approval of the US Congress - a testimony to the strength of Pakistan-US bilateral relations.