Telephone diplomacy: Nawaz, Kerry discuss drones, cooperation

US internet surveillance issue to figure during Kerry’s visit.

ISLAMABAD:

US Secretary of State John Kerry called Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday and discussed matters of mutual interest and regional security.

Sources at the Prime Minister’s Office told The Express Tribune that the discussion between the two leaders also focused on drone strikes in the run-up to the US secretary of state’s visit to Pakistan.

“To take up the issue of drone strikes in Kerry’s upcoming visit, Prime Minister Nawaz has been consulting stakeholders, including the armed forces, foreign policy experts, advisors and opposition parties,” sources said.

They added that the prime minister is determined to prevent any power from turning Pakistan into its playing-field.

“He [Sharif] will make this clear as per the expectations of the nation, particularly the people of the war-torn tribal region of Pakistan.”

Sources said matters pertaining to the recently-revealed US secret internet surveillance programme have also been included in the agenda upon recommendations made by the military authorities to the prime minister previously.

Kerry will be visiting Pakistan this month. It will make him the first high-ranking American official to visit the country since the May 11 general elections.

During the telephone conversation, Kerry reaffirmed the importance of Pakistan-US relations for enduring peace and stability in the region.

Kerry gave an update on the recent developments taking place in the region and appreciated Pakistan’s role in maintaining peace and stability.

He said that the US Administration remains steadfast in supporting the new democratic government in Pakistan.

In turn, Prime Minister Nawaz said his government is committed to strengthening relations with the United States.

He underscored the need for strategic dialogue between the two countries and emphasised the importance of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries.

Balochistan security

The two leaders also discussed the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan.

“US secretary of state expressed concern over the state of security in Pakistan. He expressed sorrow over the loss of lives in the Quetta carnage where 15 female students were killed,” sources said, adding that secretary Kerry was of the view that this is raising concerns in the international community.

To this, the premier responded: “a handful of terrorist elements and non-state actors are trying to prove that Pakistan is a failing state but conspirators won’t be allowed to attain their goals and will be dealt with an iron hand.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 18^th, 2013.