Federal Minister for Interior Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Tuesday demanded the United States stop drone attacks in Pakistan’s territory permanently.
“The six months break in US drone attacks in Pakistan improved the relationship between the two countries and it was appreciated by all segments of the society,” he said during a meeting with a US delegation headed by Daniel Feldman, the special representative for Pakistan and Afghanistan.
“United States should halt drone attacks in Pakistan permanently in order to remove a serious irritant in our relationship,” he added.
The minister said that sovereignty and self-respect are the cornerstones of Pakistan’s relationships with other countries including the United States. “It is very important that the US government understands Pakistan’s point of view to address the differences by concentrating on positives of our relationships.”
Both the countries have a history of relationship based on shared values, said the interior minister, adding that the history of strong bilateral ties dates back to 1950s.
An increased interaction amongst the people of both countries is need of the hour and greater exchange of parliamentary delegations will contribute towards that, he added.
Feldman said that the US recognises and appreciates the sacrifices rendered by Pakistan during the ongoing war on terror. He also said that United States supports democratic institutions in the country.
“At present, there is much better understanding between the two countries and both the governments will continue cooperation in variety of fields,” the US special representative said.
US Ambassador to Pakistan, Richard Olson was also part of the delegation.