In a clear departure from the policy of his predecessors, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will firmly stands his ground to demand a quick halt to the CIA-operated predator strikes on Pakistan’s tribal belt when he meets US President Barack Obama at the White House today (Wednesday).
Though no breakthroughs are anticipated on contentious issues such as US drone strikes, as the US considers it an effective tool against al Qaeda-linked terrorists, however, the prime minister’s first meeting with Obama is being seen as crucial for setting the tone for bilateral relations until the end of Obama’s term in office.
According to sources, the two sides will also discuss resumption of stalled strategic dialogue as agreed during Secretary of State John Kerry visit to Islamabad in August this year, as well as economic ties and Afghan reconciliation process.
The strategic dialogue started in 2010 and three sessions were held within 2010, in March, July and October. But then several events derailed the process and no meeting has been held since October 2010.
According to media reports, the US will discuss and finalise the extent of Pakistan support for the smooth withdrawal of most of its combat troops from Afghanistan next year and for Pakistan to use its influence with the Afghan Taliban to stop militancy and join the reconciliation process initiated by Afghan President Hamid Karzai.
According to Foreign Office spokesman, Nawaz will hold wide-ranging talks with Obama.
In addition to meeting President Obama, the spokesman said the prime minister would also meet Vice President Joe Biden and interact with members of Congress.
The visit of the prime minister will afford an opportunity to highlight the priorities of the government for economic development of Pakistan, discuss measures to strengthen bilateral cooperation and enhance trade and investment and share his vision about peace and stability in our region, the spokesperson said.