Pakistan to US After Clash: Stay Away From Border

Pakistan reiterated to Washington that they remained an ally to the U.S. in fighting terrorism, but at the same time warned the U.S. to stay on the out of the Pakistani territory while they hunt down militants along the volatile Afghanisan border. A Pakistani general predicted that the region would be stabalized within two months, after stating that an offensive along the frontier killed over 1000 militants and emphasized that American firepower wasn't needed. The general also suggested that there would be tougher fighting in areas that were more likely to house Osama bin Laden and other Al Queda leaders by showing photos of militant tunnel systems and trenches in Bajur. Currently Pakistani civilians and their leaders are angered with the U.S. for launching several ground assualts and missles on targets within Pakistan, without consent from the Pakistani government. Pakistani government spokesman Akram Shaheedi said "It has been Pakistan's policy that we will not allow anyone to violate our sovereignty, and we will continue to defend our territorial sovereignty". Zardari addressed the UN general assembly by saying that Pakistan cannot allow it's territory to be "violated by our friends". He expressed his feelings that US support is a blessing to him, but they must continue to defend their territorial sovereignty.
I think that Pakistan truly does appreiciate the support from the U.S., however it is a cultural value to them to defend their countries border from anyone that is posing a threat. The U.S. is targeting Taliban and Al Queda leaders within Pakistan, however Pakistan believes it is not Americas place to step in to Pakistani territory unannounced. Their priority is to protect their citizens and defend the privacy of their territory.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/09/30/ap/asia/main4488378.shtml?source=search_story
Brittney Nicola
10/2/2008