PR. No.199/2007

Date: 28/07/2007

US LEGISLATION IMPLEMENTATION OF 9/11 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS

The draft Bill adopted by the U.S. Congress on Implementation of 9/11 Commission Recommendations contains references and provisions that cast a shadow on the existing cooperation between Pakistan and United States, regardless of the fact that the Bill emphasizes the importance attached by the United States to long-term strategic relationship with Pakistan. Accordingly, the Bill is disappointing from Pakistan 's point of view.

2. References under Section on Pakistan relating to terrorism and nuclear non- proliferation verge on allegations of existence of so-called terrorist “safe haven” or “proliferation networks” in Pakistan . Such allegations are unsubstantiated and have been rejected by Pakistan . Inclusion of these references in the Bill cannot contribute to the trust that is necessary for the stated U.S. objective to establish a strategic relationship with Pakistan . Similarly, there are unwarranted comments on Pakistan 's bilateral relations with Afghanistan as well as on the political process in Pakistan .

3. Furthermore, conditionalities have been introduced for the continuation of U.S. security assistance to Pakistan which is primarily aimed at capacity building in counter-terrorism. This is reminiscent of the infamous Pressler Amendment that had deeply damaged the relationship between the two countries in the past.

4. On our part, at various stages in the evolution of the Bill, we had conveyed our objections to the U.S. Administration and the Members of Congress especially to creating any linkage between assistance and our counter-terrorism efforts. Such a linkage did not serve the interest of bilateral cooperation in the past and it can prove to be detrimental in the future.

5. Pakistan is fighting extremism and terrorism in its own national interest and in the pursuit of our vision of an economically vibrant, socially advanced and politically stable society. We are addressing these contemporary dangers comprehensively, sensitive to our circumstances and in accordance with what we consider to be the most effective approach. We will continue to fight Al-Qaeda, Talibanization and other terrorist and extremist elements with resolve and determination. In dealing with this serious challenge, we expect understanding and support from our friends in the international community instead of pronouncements and impositions that doubt our efforts and will be resented by our people.

6. Pakistan and the United States must work in a cooperative framework that enhances mutual confidence and trust and promotes the important strategic relationship between the two countries that is vital for ensuring peace, security and development in the region.

Islamabad

28 July 2007