Pak need not worry about strengthening Indo-US ties: US official

Washington, Nov.19 (ANI): The United States has said Pakistan need not worry about the growing Indo-US ties, as it wants to maintain a close relationship with both New Delhi and Islamabad.

Addressing a regular briefing here, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia, Robert Blake said Pakistan should not feel threatened by Washington's efforts to strengthen its ties with India.

"We value our partnership with Pakistan and with India," The News quoted Blake, as saying.

"I don't think Islamabad should be threatened by the steps we are taking with India," he said in response to a query that how should Islamabad view Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh's forthcoming visit to the US.

Dr. Singh is scheduled to visit the US from November 22 to 26, during which he is likely to hold talks with President Barack Obama on strengthening ties in economic, defence and a host of other areas.

Replying to a question about the US defence deals with India, which is said to be around 10 billion dollars, Blake pointed out that the deal is currently being worked out and 'are longer-term sales that are in the planning stages.'

Acknowledging that Pakistan has made 'some progress' in the Mumbai terror attacks investigations, he said more is expected from Islamabad in prosecuting the militants responsible for the ghastly act.

He also recognised China's role in establishing peace and stability in the region, saying: "The US will like to get Beijing's views on improving security situation in the region." (ANI)