ISLAMABAD
Pakistan has urged the U.S. to halt drone strikes on its territory “immediately.”
The message was conveyed during a meeting between U.S. Special Representative for Pakistan and Afghanistan Daniel Feldman, and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan.
Feldman is on a two-day visit to Pakistan.
“A six-month break in drone strikes had improved relations between the two countries,” Nisar said. He was referring to a temporary halt in drone strikes in Pakistan between December 2013 and May 2014.
The U.S. had resumed its drone strikes in May 2014 in Pakistan, mainly in the North Waziristan tribal region.
The minister said the drone strikes hampered smooth relations between the two countries. He urged the U.S. to halt the strikes “immediately” and “permanently.”
Pakistani leaders on several occasions have made similar demands in the past. Although, Pakistan publicly opposes the drone strikes that have killed over 3,400 people since 2004, many analysts believe the two countries have a tacit agreement on the issue.
Feldman said the U.S. recognized Islamabad’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.
During his visit, the U.S. special representative also called on Pakistan Army chief General Raheel Sharif at the army headquarters.
According to a statement issued by the military’s media wing, the two sides discussed the overall regional security situation, in particular Afghanistan during their meeting.
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