US troops not allowed to launch military action in Pak: Govt

Islamabad, Sep 22 (UNI) Rejecting a statement by US President George W Bush, Pakistan has made it clear that American Armed forces would not be permitted to launch any operation from the South Asian country.

Foreign office spokesperson Tasneem Aslam, while talking to a local television channel, reiterated President President Pervez Musharraf's statement in New York where he had said that if any operation was needed in Pakistan against al Qaeda or Taliban, it would be done by the Armed Forces of his country only.

Mr Bush had earlier told CNN that he would order military action inside Pakistan if intelligence indicated that the al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden or other top terror leaders were hiding there.

Meanwhile, Mr Bush and Gen Musharraf are scheduled to meet at the White House later today.

Ms Aslam said during their meeting, Gen Musharraf and his US counterpart are expected to discuss a host of issues including bilateral relations, terrorism and other international matters.

UNI XC AK GC1538