Musharraf 'terms' for backing U.S.

By B. Muralidhar Reddy

ISLAMABAD, SEPT. 27. There is intense speculation on the nature of support sought by the United States in taking on the Saudi dissident, Osama bin Laden, and the Taliban regime and the conditions put forth by Pakistan.

The U.S. defence delegation, which was here for consultations with its counterpart on the future course of action in achieving its goals, has concluded its mission.

Both Islamabad and Washington are tightlipped on the nature of discussions. The Musharraf regime insists that the delegation did not discuss any concrete plans of the Bush administration and was here for exchange of information.

Reports and commentaries in the Pakistani media clearly seem to indicate that the Musharraf Government has laid down certain conditions before it could consent for the nature of cooperation sought by the U.S.

A columnist, Mr. Irshad Ahmad Haqqani, in his column in the Jang listed 13 points reportedly taken by the Musharraf Government.

These are America should maintain restraint and action against Osama must be taken only after collecting all evidence. Whatever action is taken should be under the umbrella of the U.N. and the Security Council. Participation of some of the Muslims countries in the possible action should be ensured. Pakistan's interests must be safeguarded in any possible internal setup in Afghanistan following the military action. No anti-Pakistan power or circle should be given any important role in the new arrangement.

According to him, America's latest stand is that it has no intention of setting up an alternative arrangement. The international community would be collectively responsible for the refugee problem. If the Taliban agrees to hand over Osama to any third country, there should be no military strike.

Pakistan would not play any role in any military action outside the country. The stay of the American troops would be on temporary basis. Kashmiris' ``ongoing struggle'' does not come under the definition of the terrorism and any action against them even in future would not be acceptable to Pakistan.

Only Pakistan has the authority to curb the activities of some of the `jehadi' circles supporting the `freedom struggle' in Kashmir from Pakistan and no other power would ever be allowed to take action in this regard. Pakistan is trying to call an emergency meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Countries and whatever strategy it evolves should be followed.

Pakistan would not sever diplomatic ties with the Taliban Government but in case of any untoward incident, Islamabad would review its decision. America's actions against Pakistan since 1990 have been `unjust'. They should be stopped and measures taken to compensate them.

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Section  : International
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