The United State’s government and military both recognize and respect the sovereignty of Pakistan. We have been persistently focusing on rebuilding our relationship and trust. Therefore, in order to continue in this path, it is crucial to distinguish between demands and strategic proposition offered by the United States. At no time did the US Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, “demand” any major contributions by the Pakistan Army such as conducting an operation in any integral area of Pakistan. On the contrary, Admiral Mullen has been in clear support of the Pakistani Army in all its efforts to eradicate violent extremists that harm both Pakistan and the U.S. Our increasing military-to-military engagement and cooperation, along with providing more than 400 million in aid, have been our gesture of friendship and good will to the Pakistani government and people.
Admiral Mullen’s words were taken out of context, yes, he did raise concern over the North Waziristan area, yes, he did point to the need, to crack down on terrorists that are shamefully using the innocent people of that area as a shield. Adm. Mullen said in an appearance on The Wall Street Journal's "The Big Interview ", “The danger, not just now but in the future, is this epicenter of terrorism literally in the world, is right there, They know that is something that has to be by and large eliminated." However, strategic propositions such as this one are not demands but rather insight offered to the Pakistani Army so we can better cope and end atrocities in that region. What steps will be taken or not taken in the North Waziristan region is up to the Pakistani government and its people. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by the Pakistani government, people, and army in order to regain control of the Northwest of the country and hope that we will continue to strengthen our mutual ties which would result in the annihilation of those who want to turn Pakistan into a terror haven.
Please read the Wall Street Journal and Admiral Mullen’s interview to judge for yourself, and not be deceived by those who want to harm the U.S. – PAK relationship.
Mullen Stands By Pakistan - WSJ.com
LCDR Bill Speaks
DET-United States Central Command
www.centcom.mil