US urged to review drone policy

Pakistan and the United States on Friday voiced confidence in taking their strategic partnership forward even as Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir urged a review of the drone attacks strategy in pursuit of militants that may be hiding on Pakistani side of the Afghan border.
In a joint media appearance with US Special Representative for Pakistani and Afghanistan, Ambassador Marc Grossman, the top Pakistani career diplomat described talks in the steering group as "cordial, constructive and engaging," during which the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to an enduring partnership, he said.
"Pakistan values its relations with the United States - we had satisfying discussions we have agreed to give a new momentum to relations in the coming weeks" with the visit of Ambassador Grossman to Pakistan next week" and possibly Secretary Hillary Clinton's visit in May for the next round of strategic dialogue, Bashir said.
Grossman, for his part, reiterated Washington's resolve to pursuing a long-term relationship with Pakistan. "My visit to Pakistan next week will show an effort to have a relationship that is strategic, long-term and mutually beneficial." Foreign Secretary Bashir, responding to a question, said there are certain issues on which Pakistan's position is well known.
The Pakistani diplomat remarked that predators are seen as an important tool in counter-terrorism in the region. "That is not exactly the way we look at (this) - the people of Pakistan consider these attacks - casualties are caused - (are) a source of concern - that this particularly methodology is counterproductive and needs a review."
Grossman would not speak specifically on any counter-terrorism strategy but said all efforts against terrorism are designed to make life safer for Pakistanis and Americans. He noted that "are going to be ups and downs in the relationship" but added they want to make sure that no misunderstandings are allowed to derail the relationship.
During the talks that Grossman led with Foreign Secretary Bashir, the American official reiterated the Obama Administration's commitment to the people of Pakistan and their economic development. Grossman profusely acknowledged sacrifices the Pakistani people and its armed forces have made in the fight against terrorism. He also held out the pledge that the US will continue to enhance the capacity of Pakistani forces to deal with the militant groups.
In answer to a question, Foreign Secretary Bashir agreed there could be differences of perceptions. The United States, he said, has a global approach while Islamabad has a regional perspective. "Pakistan national interests have to find a better understanding," he said, adding continuous engagement would help move toward a better mutual understanding.
Bashir also made it clear that Pakistan would play the role of a facilitator and supporter in the Afghan-led process in search of a political solution to the lingering conflict. At the same time, Bashir underscored the importance of proceeding with "greater interaction and greater clarity" both in form and substance in efforts towards Afghan solution.
Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani visited Kabul last week, he said, referring to Pakistan's supportive role. Grossman said there would be meetings of various sectors under the strategic co-operation and vowed the US would endeavour that the strategic dialogue has meaning, in terms of delivering on commitments.
Grossman, speaking on the Afghan reconciliation issue, emphasised that it is for the Afghans to lead the process and not for the United States or Pakistan, who can obviously support it. He welcomed Gilani's visit to Kabul last week, saying the statements emanating from the meeting were positive.