WASHINGTON, Oct 28: The United States is working closely with Pakistan in its war against terrorism and believes the government of President Pervez Musharraf remains stable, White House chief of staff Andrew Card said on Sunday.
“I believe that General Musharraf’s government is secure,” Card told NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
“We are working closely with Gen Musharraf and we are very grateful for the support that the Pakistani government has given us, and the Pakistani people ... as well as the nations in that part of the world,” Card said.
“This is a coordinated effort. This really is good versus evil and the Pakistani government has joined the side of the good, as have other nations around the world,” he said. “And good will prevail.”
Pakistan, home to more than 2.5 million Afghan refugees, was a major supporter of Afghanistan’s ruling Taliban until the Sept. 11 attacks on the US.
Islamabad has since supported Washington, which began air strikes against Afghanistan on Oct. 7 to punish Kabul for harbouring Saudi-born Osama bin Laden, the suspected mastermind of the attacks on New York and Washington.
The United States has already rewarded Pakistan for its help, doling out $100 million in economic assistance and rescheduling $396 million in debt.
Card did not address reports that the United States was expected to announce an additional $500 million in aid for Pakistan as early as this week.
Pakistan has been plagued by violent protests against the US-led attacks on Afghanistan, sparking concerns about whether Musharraf’s government can maintain control over the country.—Reuters
