Petraeus meets Gilani, assures early reimbursement of Coalition Support Fund

Islamabad, Feb. 23 (ANI): In order to strengthen ties with Pakistan, US Central Command Chief General David Petraeus held talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and Army Chief General Ashfaq Kayani in Islamabad.

During the meeting, General Petraeus assured Gilani of his support for "Pakistan's demand for early reimbursement of the Coalition Support Fund," The News quoted a statement from the prime minister's office, as saying.

His Islamabad visit follows the capture of top Taliban military commander Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in Karachi.

"General Petraeus appreciated the commitment and sacrifices made by the security forces, armed forces and the people of Pakistan in eradicating militancy and terrorism," the statement said.

The Pakistani premier stressed the need for closer ties between the United States and Pakistan.

"Gilani said that the long-term strategic relations between the US and Pakistan needs to be made more meaningful to further bridge the trust deficit and help develop closer cooperation in all sectors," the statement said.

General Petraeus's arrival in Pakistan also coincided with a suicide bombing on a military convoy in the Swat valley where nine people, including women and children, were killed. (ANI)