Ambassador Jilani’s remarks at the Pakistan US Programme Conference organized by the Atlantic Council
Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani today joined a gathering of eminent personalities from Pakistan and the US to discuss the future of Pakistan -US relations at an event hosted by the Atlantic Council. Highlighting the inherent strengths of this vital relationship, Ambassador Jilani explained that the common goals of strengthening democracy, securing peace and stability in the region and building economic integration for shared prosperity were among the numerous factors that bind Pakistan and the United States in an enduring partnership.
Ambassador Jilani noted that since the democratic transition in Pakistan, the relationship was on a constant upward trajectory and the regular high level exchanges between the two countries were facilitating in identifying areas of further cooperation. The Strategic Dialogue framework under distinct Working Groups was bringing together relevant officials from both the countries to discuss new avenues for intensifying cooperation in areas of economy and finance, energy, defence, counter-terrorism and non- proliferation. Ambassador informed that in line with the vision of their respective leadership, the two sides had recently decided to establish a new working group to augment cooperation in the field of education, science and technology.
Outlining the common challenges to peace and security in South Asia, Ambassador Jilani stressed that Pakistan and the US had convergence of interest to develop a mutually beneficial relationship to promote stability in the region. Pakistan’s unparalleled sacrifices in the global war against terrorism, its efforts to eradicate terrorism from the region through the ongoing comprehensive security operations in FATA and consistent support for the democratic process in Afghanistan were concrete expression of Pakistan’s commitment to bring stability in the region, Ambassador explained.
Ambassador Jilani expressed disappointment on the unilateral decision by India to cancel Foreign Secretary level talks and the recent escalation on the line of control through multiple violations by the Indian security forces. Such aggressive posturing in a volatile region, Ambassador noted, not only runs counter to the stated Indian objectives for a peace dialogue with Pakistan but also jeopardizes the security and stability of the entire region.
October 14, 2014
Washington DC
