ISLAMABAD - US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson said holding of dialogue with Taliban is prerogative of the Pakistani government.
Talking to media in Islamabad on Wednesday, Olson said any reservations regarding these proposed talks will depend on terms and conditions of the dialogue with Taliban.
Terming recent general elections big success of the Pakistani nation in which democratic forces emerged as victorious, he said a historic turnout was witnessed in the elections‚ which reflects that the people have confidence in democracy. He said these elections proved to be a defeat for those who are against democratic values and holding of elections. Earlier‚ inaugurating an English language laboratory at SOS Children's Village in Islamabad, he said that the United States is rehabilitating the buildings of 800 schools affected by the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan.
He said that the US is also helping to launch new degree programmes in 90 universities and colleges besides giving scholarships to 12,000 students studying in different institutions in Pakistan.
Richard Olson said that Washington is also providing 15 million dollars to NGOs to improve socio-economic condition at community level.
INP adds: Leader of the Opposition in Senate, Senator Ishaq Dar, who is most likely to become the Finance Minister in the new government, met US Ambassador Robin Raphel in his chamber at Parliament House here on Wednesday.
Both sides discussed bilateral issues and emphasised the need for further enhancing cooperation in various fields.
Dar stressed the need for US assistance in resolving the energy crisis facing the country. He also emphasised the need for strengthening trade and economic linkages between the two countries.
Earlier, the US ambassador felicitated the Senator for PML-N's victory in the recent elections.