Negroponte rejects Pakistan leaders idea of holding talks with tribal extremists

Visiting US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte last evening rejected a proposal by several Pakistani leaders to resolve the issue of militancy in tribal regions through dialogue.

Karachi, Mar 28 : Visiting US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte last evening rejected a proposal by several Pakistani leaders to resolve the issue of militancy in tribal regions through dialogue.

He said that it was not possible for him to hold talks with irreconcilable elements (militants).

"Security measures are obviously necessary when one is talking about dealing with irreconcilable elements who want to destroy our very way of life. I don't see how you can talk with those kind of people. There are reconcilable elements in any of these situations, who hopefully can be persuaded to participate in the democratic political process as you and I can understand it," The Nation quoted Negroponte as saying at a press conference in Karachi.

He concluded his three-day visit to Islamabad last evening.

Talking about the purpose of his visit to Pakistan, the US Deputy Secretary of State said these types of exchanges helped to contributing and to sustain the US-Pakistan relationship.

"We all recognise this is an important time in Pakistan's history. As the new leadership takes office and begins to set the legislative agenda and as the new government starts to take shape, my visit afforded me the opportunity to meet with a number of leaders from across the Pakistani political spectrum who are working together in this process," he added.

He further said that in his meetings in Islamabad, he expressed support for the democratic transition underway in Pakistan. "The US-Pakistan partnership remains strong and we envision a continued, close, productive alliance that benefits both countries," he elaborated further.

Negroponte said that in meetings with him, Pakistani leaders expressed desire for strong and sustained friendship with the U.S. in economic and security matters.

He said the US was committed to working with all of Pakistani leaders on the full spectrum of bilateral issues from fighting violent extremism to improving education and economic opportunities. "In the months ahead, the US looks forward to engaging Pakistan's new government on how best to promote economic growth and reduce poverty," said Negroponte.

ANI