Accepting 'stringed' US aid against Pakistan's self respect: Gilani

Multan (Pakistan), Apr.12 (ANI): Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said it would be against the country's self respect to accept the 'stringed' US aid.

Talking to media persons after a launching ceremony of the South Punjab Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SPWCCI) here, Gilani said the financial aid being offered to Pakistan by the United States was against the country's interest.

"Pakistan is a sovereign country, a self-respecting nation and front line ally in the war against terrorism and will not accept such conditions that are against the interests and stature of the country," Dawn quoted Gilani, as saying.

The United States had incorporated new conditions for Pakistan that it would not lend support to any group or person conspiring against India, before the Obama Administration gives a green signal to the 1.5 billion dollars assistance to it for the next five years.

The Pakistan aid bill named the Pakistan Enduring Assistance and Cooperation Enhancement or the PEACE Act of 2009, was tabled in the US House of Representatives on April 2.

Furthermore, the bill states that Pakistan should ensure access of US investigators to individuals suspected of engaging in worldwide proliferation of nuclear materials.

Gilani said Islamabad was keen to establish peace in the region and wants a cordial relation with all its neighbours including India, Afghanistan and Iran.

Commenting on the issue of implementation of the 'Nizam Adl' regulation in the Swat Valley, Gilani said the matter would be placed in the parliament before a final decision is taken.

"The parliament is the appropriate forum to discuss it," he added. (ANI)