US' threats of action in Pak territory counter productive: Kasuri

Islamabad, Aug 15 (UNI) Pakistan Foreign Minister Khurshid Kasuri today reiterated that recent US statements threatening to launch strikes inside Pakistani territory were counter-productive to the close cooperation between the two countries.

''The long-term strategic relationship between Pakistan and the United States is in the interest of both countries and for durable peace and security in the region,'' he told the visiting US Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher.

Mr Kasuri emphasised that such a relationship should be based on mutual trust and confidence.

Mr Boucher's visit comes against the backdrop of an increasing pressure on President Pervez Musharraf by Washington for a crackdown on militants hiding in Pakistani tribal regions. The US officials also repeatedly indicated possibility of carrying out strikes in these areas in hunt of militants.

The Foreign Minister said Pakistan was making valuable contribution and immense sacrifices in fighting extremism and terrorism.

He also expressed concern regarding the recent US legislation entitled ''Implementation of 9/11 Commission Recommendations Act 2007'' which lays down conditionalities relating to security assistance to Pakistan.

''Such legislation reminded of the Pressler Amendment, which had impacted negatively on the bilateral relations, and was contrary to the spirit of Pakistan-US strategic relationship,'' he added.

The US had suspended Pakistan's economic and military aid in October 1990 under the law authored by then Senator Lerry Pressler, for possessing nuclear weapons and technology.

Assistant Secretary Boucher appreciated the contribution and sacrifices made by Pakistan in the measures in fighting extremism and terrorism.

He said the United States was committed to a long-term strategic relationship with Pakistan and there existed a solid foundation for such a relationship.

The next round of strategic dialogue between the two countries scheduled in September also came under discussion.

''The dialogue will cover the entire gamut of Pakistan-US relations, including the institutional mechanisms pertaining to promoting cooperation in the fields of Economy, Education, Energy, and Science and Technology,'' a foreign ministry statement said.

Pakistan's energy needs and the Indo-US civil nuclear agreement were also discussed during the meeting.

UNI