Press Releases 2009
U.S. National Security Advisor General James L. Jones Meets With Pakistani Leaders
June 25, 2009
Islamabad - National Security Advisor (NSA) General James L. Jones USMC (Retired) completed two days of scheduled meetings with Pakistan's top civilian and military leadership that focused on implementing President Obama's comprehensive regional engagement strategy while strengthening the U.S. - Pakistan bilateral relationship.
"The United States is committed to a long term partnership between the American and Pakistani governments and people. Together, the U.S. and Pakistan are enhancing border cooperation, trade, energy, and economic development to help Pakistanis face the challenges posed by extremists," as General Jones said. "Terrorism is not simply the enemy of America - it is a direct and urgent threat to the Pakistani people."
During the two-day visit, NSA General Jones met with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Chief of Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, as well as provincial and federal government officials to discuss current challenges facing Pakistan and to coordinate efforts with the Pakistan Government in implementing the new shared comprehensive strategy. NSA Jones also discussed the urgent situation affecting internally displaced persons and ongoing U.S. assistance effort. Jones had the opportunity to visit Islamabad's landmark Faisal Majid - among the world's largest places of worship -- where he was briefed on the mosque's key architectural elements and history.
General Jones' visit to Pakistan is part of a three-country regional visit that includes stops in Afghanistan and India.