Press Releases 2007
U.S.-Pakistan Relationship Represents Long-Term Commitments To Progress, Peace: Ambassador Patterson
09/05/2007Islamabad - The broad-based relationship between the United States and Pakistan represents “a series of long-term commitments to progress and peace,” U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Anne W. Patterson told new Pakistani diplomats.
“We cannot talk about democracy, or education, or economic growth, as a one-time event. These are processes that will yield results over time,” the Ambassador said in a speech on “The Human Dimension of Diplomacy” at the Foreign Service Academy in Islamabad today.
Ambassador Patterson observed that all nations base their foreign policy on national interests. “For us, the U.S.-Pakistan long-term relationship means a reduced terrorist threat and a strong, democratic, prosperous Pakistan. I believe this relationship will also yield substantial benefits for your country: more two-way trade, more U.S. investment, and stronger people-to-people contacts – to name just a few,” she said.
“Development depends on good, accountable governance, and economic policies that unleash private sector growth. Pakistan has made tremendous strides in these areas,” the Ambassador remarked. “At every opportunity, I tell my fellow Americans about your economic progress, as there is still too little appreciation for these facts outside of Pakistan.”
As for Pakistan’s domestic politics, the Ambassador emphasized that “the United States does not support particular candidates or parties in your electoral process. We support free, fair, and transparent elections that reflect the choices of the Pakistani people. We support the efforts of your government, of your political parties, of your civil society, and indeed of ordinary citizens to continue building a democratic and prosperous Pakistan. For our part, the United States is committed to helping solidify the basis for long-term peace, stability, and development in this region. This is the foundation for a partnership that serves both countries well.”
The American envoy discussed U.S. investments in Pakistan’s human development, particularly in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas with projects to support the Government of Pakistan’s FATA development plans. The Government of the United States has implemented a five-year, $750 million assistance program in the FATA. One of the main areas of the program is expanding access to education.
“The educational programs the United States is supporting in the FATA offer a good example of how our shared priorities have a direct impact on people’s lives and their future prospects,” she said. “Broader access to education and comprehensive study programs will build the foundation for Pakistan to become more competitive in the global economy. We believe that through support for education, we can help reduce poverty, and give young people the means to become productive citizens.”