ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani leadership on Tuesday joined global leaders to pay tribute to Richard Holbrooke, describing him as a key player in international diplomacy and a great friend of Pakistan.
In his condolence message, President Asif Ali Zardari said Holbrooke was a key player in international diplomacy, both a friend of the nation and a personal friend.
Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said Holbrooke passionately worked to establish strategic partnership between Pakistan and the US.
“We will always remember his contributions towards Pakistan-US bilateral ties, as well as his efforts for promoting peace and stability in our region, with a deep sense of appreciation and gratitude,” Gilani said. Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said the sudden passing away of Holbrooke had left a huge vacuum. “He will long be remembered for his untiring efforts towards peace and stability in our region,” Qureshi said.
“Holbrooke was great advocate of reconciliation in Afghanistan and for the key role that he saw for Pakistan,” said a Pakistani diplomat, wishing not to be named. Noted analyst Dr Hassan Askari Rizvi said there would be no change in the US policy for the region with Holbrooke’s death.
