Pakistan reiterates drone attacks “illegal, counter productive, unacceptable”

Islamabad : Pakistan on Thursday reiterated that drone attacks on its territory were “illegal, counter productive and unacceptable.”

This was stated by Foreign Secretary Jalil Abbas Jilani at news briefing along with visiting United States Special Envoy for Pakistan and Afghanistan Marc Grossman after high level talks between Pakistan and the US on number of issues including bilateral relations and regional security. Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar led Pakistan delegation and US side was led by Grossman.

Jalil Abbas said drone attacks issue was discussed in meeting of civil and military leadership of the two countries. “We have to find a solution which is in accordance with the spirit of our parliament’s recommendations based on respect and sovereignty of Pakistan,” he stressed.

Grossman said the US respects Pakistan’s parliamentary review on new contours of relations and the seriousness with which it was carried out. He said the US respects sovereignty of Pakistan. He said after completion of parliamentary review the task is to how to move forward on advancing the most important relationship between the two countries.

Grossman again offered condolence on behalf of the US over November 26, 2011 Salala incident in which personnel of Pakistan army were targeted in aerial attack. “Efforts will be made that such incidents do not recur,” he added.

Jalil Abbas said Pakistan desires to reengage with the US as per parliamentary guidelines. He said bilateral relations should be based on transparency trust and public ownership. “Pak-US multifaceted ties span over six decades. We want to develop these in political and security spheres.”

To a question on NATO supplies through Pakistan to Afghanistan Foreign Secretary said the issue was part of discussion but “no decision in this regard has yet been taken. There will be more talks on the issue. We have to work out new arrangements as and when we get direction from the cabinet.” He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace, security, stability in Afghanistan and the region.