Pakistan Conveys Concern At US Drones Strikes To Grossman

Islamabad, Oct 21, IRNA – The visiting special U.S. envoy for the region and Pakistani Foreign Minister Saturday discussed Pakistan's reservations over the U.S. drone attacks in the country’s tribal regions, state radio reported. US Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Marc Grossman met Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar in Islamabad on the first day of his visit during which he also meet military leaders, the U.S. embassy said. They reviewed the latest situation in Afghanistan and agreed to work together to bring stability back to that country, Radio Pakistan reported. According to spokesman of US Embassy in Islamabad‚ bilateral relations and security situation in the region will also come under discussion during the other meetings. He said decision regarding launching of operation in North Waziristan will be taken by Pakistan. They also discussed bilateral relations and security situation in the region and agreed to work together for bringing stability back to Afghanistan. The Foreign Ministry says that the visit is part of the ongoing engagements between the two countries and the two sides will discuss all issues of mutual interest as well as concern. The visit comes at a time when diplomatic efforts for solution of the longstanding Afghan problem are gaining momentum as the endgame approaches. Pakistan, Afghanistan and the U.S. have also an exclusive group to explore ways to push for the reconciliation process in Afghanistan ahead of the 2014 withdrawal of foreign troops. Before his arrival, Ambassador Grossman attended a meeting of the International Contact Group (ICG) for Afghanistan in Ankara on Friday, which agreed to support further Afghan progress on establishing the parameters of an inclusive and transparent election process, and noted continued strong international support for Afghan-led reconciliation. The ICG members reiterated the international community’s commitment to support inclusive, open and transparent political and security transition in Afghanistan./end