January 17, 2008	Thursday	Muharram 07, 1429

ISLAMABAD, Jan 16: Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro on Wednesday reiterated Pakistan’s stance of not allowing any foreign forces to intrude into or operate within its territory under any pretext.

Talking to the Pakistan ambassador to the US, Lt Gen (retd) Mehmood Ali Durrani, he said: “The sovereignty of the state will not be compromised at any level as the government and people of Pakistan are fully capable of handling their security matters and protecting their sovereignty themselves.” According to an official handout issued here on Wednesday, he said Pakistan had joined the international community in the war against terrorism as an equal partner, and its contribution had been recognised throughout the world.

He said the nuclear assets of Pakistan were adequately guarded by a reliable command and control system and apprehensions expressed in this context were nothing but lack of knowledge.

The prime minister said Pakistan’s foreign policy was based on peaceful coexistence and friendly relations with all the major powers.

He said relations with the United States were based on shared values and common objectives to ensure peace and security in the world.

“Our bilateral relations are focused on promoting economic ties and better understanding of challenges confronting the region,” he added.

He said the understanding shown by the US administration to the geo-political situation of Pakistan and its commitment to the cause of international peace had always been appreciated by Pakistan.

The ambassador apprised the prime minister of perceptions about Pakistan in the American media and the US administration.