Reboot of relations will help achieve clarity with US: PM

Premier meets German defence minister.

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani met with German Defence Minister Dr Thomas de Maiziere at the PM House on Tuesday to discuss cooperation and military collaboration between the two countries.

The prime minister said Pakistan was committed to support an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process in Afghanistan, adding that he wanted to see Afghanistan as an independent, peaceful and prosperous country, as it was also in the best interests of Pakistan.

The German defence minister expressed his satisfaction over the democratic process in the country, adding that he appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in improving relations with its neighbouring countries.  The minister reiterated that Germany would play a role in Afghanistan beyond 2014, adding that     Pakistan’s role in post-withdrawal Afghanistan was very important for the security and stability of Afghanistan and indeed of the region, he maintained. Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar and senior officials of the relevant ministries were also present on the occasion.

The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s losses during his meeting with the German defence minister, adding that Pakistan had suffered more causalities than all the coalition partners put together. He went on to emphasise the importance Pakistan attached to its relations with the United States, adding that the new rules of engagement, pending approval of Parliament, would be formulated soon, and would help achieve clarity in the relations with the US..

The German foreign minister also called on General Khalid Shameem Wynne Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). The two discussed areas of cooperation between the two countries. He also appreciated the sacrifices rendered by the people and Armed Forces of Pakistan in the fight against terror.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 14^th, 2012.