Rift widening in US-Pak alliance: Analysts and diplomats

Analysts and diplomats believe that the ongoing National Assembly debate on Pakistans foreign relations could expose the widening rift between Islamabad and Washington.

Lahore, Aug 7 : Analysts and diplomats believe that the ongoing National Assembly debate on Pakistan's foreign relations could expose the widening rift between Islamabad and Washington.

Analysts warn that Islamabad's close ties with Washington are, in fact, responsible for the criticism of former foreign policy.

"The problem for Musharraf is that he has built himself up as a pro-US figure since the 9/11 attacks. Now, the disagreements over fighting terrorism are returning to haunt him," said security affairs analyst Hasan Askari Rizvi.

"While Musharraf is being criticised from all sides, including elements within the US and Pakistani politicians, there is not much he can do to change the picture quickly," he added.

Nadeem Khan, a shop assistant in Islamabad, said members of Parliament should consider cutting off ties with the US entirely.

"It is Musharraf who is a friend of the Americans. Now, Musharraf must be forced to sacrifice his relations with the US," the Daily Times quoted him, as saying.

Analysts warn that the sentiment on the streets will continue putting an increased strain on Musharraf's close ties with the US, and added that the General is already under considerable domestic pressure over his authority.

Analysts said that same person couldn't share the offices of the President and the military chief according to the Pakistan Constitution.

Musharraf was granted a one-time waiver by the Supreme Court, which allowed him to hold on to both offices, but his term is due to expire in October this year, they added.

Meanwhile, senior Western diplomats said that Musharraf's ability to satisfy the US Government and the Pakistani public has been severely compromised.

"In an election year, when people will get a chance to cast their votes, the results could well go against politicians who support Musharraf," a European Ambassador in Islamabad told CBS News.

"Lots of people will denounce Musharraf regime, in great part due to his external connections," the diplomat added.

ANI