Zardari reiterates demand for transfer of US drone technology to Pakistan

Islamabad, Feb. 23 (ANI): President Asif Ali Zardari has reiterated the demand for transfer of US drone technology to Pakistan so that Islamabad could itself hit high-value Taliban targets in its Tribal Areas.

During his meeting with US Central Command Chief General David Petraeus, Zardari discussed matters related to regional security, drone attacks, fight against militancy, rehabilitation of the internally displaced persons, strengthening of the law enforcement agencies and arrears of the Coalition Support Fund, the Daily Times reports.

He also emphasised the need for pursuing a well-structured economic development agenda in which the international community had an important role to play.

While appreciating American support for Pakistan's security and economic development, Zardari pointed out the delays in payments of arrears of the Coalition Support Fund of over 1.5 billion dollars and called for repayments of the outstanding dues as soon as possible.

General David Petraeus appreciated the role of the Pakistan Army and other security agencies in the fight against militancy.

Patreaus also appreciated the commitment and sacrifices rendered by the security and armed forces, and the people of Pakistan in eliminating militancy and terrorism. (ANI)