RAWALPINDI: Secretary Defence Lt General (rtd) Muhammad Alam Khattak Monday expressed concern over the issue of F-16s and said the aircraft were essential for Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.
“The Operation Zarb-e-Azb and the National Action Plan are the testament of Pakistan’s commitment in its fight against terrorism and extremism,” he said while talking to Commander US Central Command General Joseph L. Votel, who called on him here.
The secretary also asked about the status of roadmap regarding future reimbursement mechanism under the Coalition Support Fund (CSF) beyond 2016, according to a press release.
General Joseph acknowledged the role played by Pakistan’s Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism, saying the “continued support from US in training, equipment and necessary funding will act as tools essential to fight against terrorist outfits.”
During the meeting, the two sides expressed resolve to enhance the existing bilateral cooperation, besides exchanging views on matters of mutual interests.
The meeting also discussed that there was a need of further enhancement and diversification of defence relations by transcending from present confines of counter-terrorism to the realm of conventional defence.
Pakistan highly values its relationship with the US, which is spreading over six decades and has witnessed progress in various areas, including trade, economy, investment, energy, defence and people-to-people contacts.
