Qureshi says Sharia-deal is 'local solution to a local problem

Washington, Feb. 25 (ANI): Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmmood Qureshi has explained that last week's Sharia-deal between the Pakistan Government and the Taliban is a "local solution to a local problem."

"The logic behind this agreement is a local solution to a local problem, which is quick dispensation of justice. It is not any appeasement towards militants," the Daily Times quoted Quershi, as saying after meeting his Afghan counterpart Rangeen Dafdar Spanta here on Tuesday.

However, Qureshi assured that the Sharia-deal would not affect Islamabad's commitment to fight terrorism.

"Pakistan's determination and resolve to defeat terrorism is as sound as it was. We are absolutely clear in our objectives," he said.

Seperately, Qureshi met Richard Holbrooke, the special US representative for Pakistan and Afghanistan on Tuesday.

Holbrooke said the policy review meetings between top the US, Pakistani and Afghan officials will help build mutual trust for effective security cooperation.

The meetings are crucial for the review ordered by the US President Barack Obama on Washington's policy towards Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Obama administration is planning to chalk-out a new strategy to achieve security and stability in the region considered as critical to American security interests. (ANI)