Gates rates Pak relationship six on rate card of ten

Washington, May 13 (ANI): US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has rated Washington's relationship with Pakistan as six on a scale of ten, adding that he expects a sustained progress in ties between both countries.

In an interview aired on CNN, Gates stressed that ties between Islamabad and Washington have improved 'significantly' in the recent past, and that he would give the relationship "six or a seven now."

Gates noted that the Obama Administration is well aware about its responsibilities and respects Pakistan's stand on its sovereignty.

"The Pakistanis are very sensitive to the size of the American footprint, the number of Americans on the ground in a training capacity or whatever. They're also extremely sensitive about their sovereignty. And we have to respect those things," The Daily Times quoted Gates, as saying. (ANI)