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Pakistan says not informed by US about missile strike

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Islamabad, Sept 19, IRNA

Pakistan-US Strike

Pakistan was not informed by the United States over the Wednesday's night missile strike in the country's tribal region, which killed at least six people, the Foreign Minister said.

A US spokesman said that Pakistan was informed about the latest missile attack in South Waziristan region as part of series of strikes over the past over few weeks, which also caused civilian casualties.

"The Americans did not inform us about the yesterday's missile attack whereas there is a clear commitment from them to respect our sovereignty; however, there might be some institutional misunderstanding in this regard," Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told a news conference.

The last night attack came despite Pakistan's protest which was also coincided with the visit to Islamabad by the American army chief Mike Mullen, who said the US will respect sovereignty of Pakistan.

Answering question regarding last night missile attack from the US forces in tribal area, Qureshi said, "We are cooperating with each other in the war on terror and both the United States and Pakistan will have to keep in mind some principles and respect for each others sovereignty".

"When we expect respect of our sovereignty from the United States it is our obligation at the same time to combat those acts of terrorism which lead to violate their sovereignty also".

The Foreign Minister said that the Pakistani leadership presented its point of view during meetings with American Joint Chief of Staff and apprised him about the sentiments of the nation.

"The US Commander was told that it is a long struggle and we will have to move forward keeping in view the ground realities".

Responding to a question regarding rules of engagements with the US in war on terror, Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that there is understanding that no foreign troops will be allowed to operate in Pakistan and if some action is required it will be carried out by Pak Army.

xHe said during his forthcoming visit to New York, he himself will take up the issue with Washington and would ask them to abide by the rules.