The Hindu : U.S. praise for Pak. economic policy

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Nov 21, 2002

International

International

U.S. praise for Pak. economic policy

By B. Muralidhar Reddy

ISLAMABAD Nov. 20. The visiting U.S. Secretary of Treasury, Paul O'Neill, is all praise for the economic policies pursued by the Musharraf regime and has said that the Bush Administration would continue its financial support as long as Pakistan plays "an active role in the war against terrorism''.

Mr. O'Neill, touring the region, made it a point to announce that Pakistan was pursuing right economic policies and singled out the Finance Minister, Shaukat Aziz, for his good work.

The comments assume significance as theoretically the Musharraf Government is supposed to be handing over the reins of power to a civilian set up.

He sought to send out a clear signal that the U.S. would assist Pakistan only if it continued the current economic policies and also continue its assistance in the so-called war against terrorism.

Perhaps this is as direct as a senior functionary could get on the demand by the alliance of religious parties for withdrawal of American military bases and review of its post September 11 foreign policy.

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