U.S. Embassy Statement

March 16, 2009 

Islamabad - The U.S. Embassy issued the following statement today:

We welcome the announcement by the Government of Pakistan of its plans to reinstate former Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammed Chaudhry.  This is a statesmanlike decision taken to defuse a serious confrontation, and the apparent removal of this long-standing national issue is a substantial step towards national reconciliation.  Now is the time for all Pakistanis and their political representatives to work together, with the support of their friends and allies, to peacefully strengthen their democracy and ensure a positive dialogue as they move forward to deal with the many issues confronting them.