UN chief urges respect for Pakistan sovereignty

UNITED NATIONS - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon Tuesday urged Pakistan and the United States to resolve the controversy over American military raids into Pakistani territory in pursuit of militants, emphasising respect for the country’s sovereignty.

“I would only hope and urge the concerned parties to resolve this issue, respecting each other’s concerns as well as their sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said in response to a question at his monthly press conference.

On the precarious situation in Afghanistan and the growing calls for political, rather than military solution, Ban said, “I believe that there is no perfect military option. I believe that there should be more political dialogue to resolve these issues ... This is desirable”.