US objects to talks with Mehsud

By OUR PAKISTAN CORRESPONDENT

ISLAMABAD

July 3: The United States disapproves negotiations with Taliban commander Baitullah Mehsud but backs Islamabad’s talks with tribal elders, said a senior US envoy.

Mr Richard Boucher, US assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs, said Washington supports an ongoing operation by Pakistani forces against Islamic hardliners in Bara, Khyber Agency and Peshawar.

However, he said, "We don’t support concessions to Taliban leaders like Baitullah Mehsud."

Addressing a news conference here after concluding his three-day visit to Pakistan on Wednesday evening, Mr Boucher stated that the United States supports the policy described in a statement by Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani last week where he said the intention was to "negotiate with tribesmen, not militants".

He said the operation was a good step. "We welcome the operation in Peshawar. People there have faced harassment by these groups," he added.

Mr Boucher said the United States would continue providing training facilities and equipment to help Pakistan in the war against terrorism and extremism.

He noted that apart from the use of force, there is a need for expediting economic activities, building schools and health facilities and creating job opportunities. About the role of President Pervez Musharraf, he said, "Frankly, President Musharraf is not the issue right now."