ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: While expressing concern on the issue of resolution of sale of F-16s, Pakistan on Monday told the United States that these aircraft are essential for fight against terrorism.
In a meeting with a delegation led by the Commander US Central Command (US CENTCOM) General Joseph L. Votel at the Defence Ministry in Islamabad on Monday, the Secretary Defence Lieutenant General (retd) Muhammad Alam Khattak said that the Operation Zarb-e-Azb and National Action Plan (NAP) are testament of Pakistan’s commitment in its fight against terrorism and extremism.
The secretary defence also enquired about the status of roadmap regarding future reimbursement mechanism in lieu of Coalition Support Fund (CSF) beyond 2016.
During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on matters of mutual interest and enhancing defence cooperation between Pakistan and the US.
Both sides were of the view that there is a need of further enhancement and diversification of defence relations by transcending from present confines of counter terrorism to the realm of conventional defence.
The secretary defence said that Pakistan highly values its relationship with the United States which is spread over six decades and has seen progress in various areas including trade, economy, investment, energy, defence and people to people contact.
The US CENTCOM Commander acknowledged the role played by Pakistan Armed Forces in their fight against terrorism. He said that continued support from the US in training, equipment and necessary funding will act as tools essential to fight against terrorist outfits.
