January 13, 2009	Tuesday	Muharram 15, 1430

ISLAMABAD, Jan 12: Former National Security Adviser Major-General (retd) Mehmood Durrani has defended his decision to disclose Ajmal Kasab’s identity as a Pakistani national, claiming he had been authorised by the prime minister in writing to speak on matters of national security and Pakistan-India relations, and it was his understanding that the Ajmal Kasab issue was within this domain.

Talking to DawnNews, he said that all stakeholders had been taken into confidence before the statement on Ajmal Kasab was made public. He asserted that he did not breach the confidence or the trust of the leadership.

He denied he had any differences with the prime minister before his sacking from the top cabinet position.

When asked about reports that top American officials had lobbied for his restoration, he said the reports were non-

sensical because he did not approach any top government functionary or the Americans.

He said he was relaxed and comfortable at home and was not interested in any position.

However, he admitted having had strong links with top US officials, but said such contacts were necessary for protecting Pakistan’s national interests.

He regretted that certain elements had launched a character assassination campaign against him and were terming him an American agent.

Mr Durrani, who once served as military secretary to former president Gen Ziaul Haq, said he had served the country for more than 40 years with honesty and commitment and those who doubted his patriotism might not be patriotic themselves.