ISLAMABAD, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan and the United States are trying to deal with difficult and complicated issues and that is why their resolution is taking time, the Foreign Ministry said Thursday.
Responding to questions at the weekly news briefing in Islamabad, Foreign Office spokesman Moazzam Ahmad Khan said there is desire on both sides to resolve these issues.
"Pakistan and United States know that their relationship is important and critical for stability and prosperity of the region, " he said.
The spokesman said several issues are under discussion in the light of the recommendations of the Parliament. He said these issues have become complicated particularly after Salala incident, but both sides are trying to bring their relationship back on track.
Asked about the charges regarding the NATO supply routes, Mr. Moazzam said he would not go into specifics but there are other bigger issues besides supply routes that are being discussed.
The spokesman said Pakistan has repeatedly maintained that it is fighting terrorism and extremism in its own national interest. He said Pakistan has also made it clear that it will not allow any sanctuary or save havens, neither will it allow its territory to be used by another country. Similarly, Pakistan expects that other countries will not allow their soil to be used against Pakistan.
To a question about alleged delay in issuing visas to US officials by Pakistan Embassy in Washington, the spokesman said all requests for visas go through a process, which takes time. He said it is a normal practice.
The spokesman said talks between Pakistan and India on Sir Creek would take place in New Delhi on 18th and 19th of this month.
Talks between the two countries at foreign secretary level would be held in New Delhi, followed by a meeting of the foreign ministers in Pakistan, both scheduled for next month.
He said the leadership of both Pakistan and India have underscored the importance of resolving all the issues in a result- oriented and sustained manner.
|
