Tahirul Qadri doesn't have US backing: envoy
06 January, 2013
ISLAMABAD: The US on Saturday dispelled the impression that it was backing Tehreek-e-Minhajul Quran chief Allama Tahirul Qadri, who has threatened the government with a long march. "The US administration doesn't bet on individuals or political parties and Qadri is not an exception at all," said US mission Deputy Chief and Special Envoy Richard Hoagland while talking to media. The envoy said that the US was an advocate of democracy and transparent election in the world. On drone attacks in Waziristan and Mullah Nazir's killing, he said America's stance against terrorism was unshakable and the country would go as far as it took to fight the menace off. Hoagland also said that terrorism was a mutual concern shared by Pakistan and the US. Therefore, both countries should cooperate in efforts to eradicate terrorism. He also condemned the killing of the Awami National Party (ANP) leader and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa senior minister Bashir Ahmed Bilour. "Washington will never leave Islamabad alone in the war on terror. We will see our ally through till the end. We wish a stable and stronger Pakistan no matter what," he added. Moreover, the US envoy said that any decision regarding military operation in North Waziristan would be taken by Pakistan itself. End.
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