US defence secretary arrives in Pakistan
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, Jan 21, IRNA -- US Defence Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Islamabad on Thursday on a two-day visit for talks on defence ties and bilateral cooperation in the war on al-Qaeda and Taliban, officials said.
Gates, who arrived from India, is heading a 125-member team, sources said.
During his stay, Gates is to meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, Defence Minister Ahmed Mukhtar and top military officials.
Security matters, with special focus on the situation in Afghanistan, India-Pakistan relations and the disputes between Pakistan and the US over host of issues would come under discussions, official sources added.
Pakistan is opposing US drone strikes in the country’s tribal region as Washington has ruled out halt to the attacks.
The US defence secretary said in New Delhi that militant group affiliated to al-Qaeda might try to start a war between Pakistan and India as part of their efforts to destabilize the region.
The sources said that Gates would be given a list of Pakistan's defence requirements.
Sources also said that he would take the government into confidence over further development of US soldiers in Afghanistan, actions against Taliban, and new US policy for Afghanistan.
Pakistan will also convey its concern over the military surge in Afghanistan as Islamabad fears that more militants could cross into Pakistan as fighting increases in Afghanistan.
**1422
End News / IRNA / News Code 910991
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