According to details provided by foreign office, President Zardari congratulated him on assuming the office of the US President and expressed the hope that there will be a beneficial change for the world, particularly for our region and Pakistan-US relations.
The two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations, situation in the region and other issues of mutual interest. Both also agreed to start an active engagement for the resolution of problems facing our region through a holistic strategy.
The visit of the US Special Representative, Holbrooke was also discussed. Both leaders underscored a need for a joint strategy to bring peace and security to the region. President Obama reiterated his continued support for democracy, socio-economic and human development in Pakistan.
It is to be noted that the new US administration is taking keen interest in Pakistan considering its paramount importance in fighting militancy as a frontline state. The US has also decided to change a policy regarding Pakistan and Afghanistan to overcome the growing militancy in the garb of AL-Qaida and Taliban and appointed Richard Holbrooke as special Envoy to the region, considering it more dangerous and important than Iraq.
Richard Holbrooke in his current visit to Pakistan announced to review and redesign the strategy on fighting against militancy invited Pakistan to send its team led by Foreign Minister to share its experience and analysis for incorporating them in the new proposed policy. Pakistan side has also pointed out some loopholes of policies of previous US administration and asked the superpower to change them making more feasible to cope with the menace of terrorism and extremism by wining the hearts and minds of local people.