Department of Justice Seal Department of Justice
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2003
WWW.USDOJ.GOV
AG
(202) 514-2008
TDD (202) 514-1888

STATEMENT FROM THE ATTORNEY GENERAL REGARDING
MEETING WITH PAKISTAN AMBASSADOR ASHRAF JEHANGIR QAZI


"I am pleased Ambassador Qazi and I had the opportunity today for discussions on a range of important bilateral terrorism, law enforcement, and immigration issues including the fair and just implementation of the NSEERS (National Security Entry-Exit Registration System) program. The United States recognizes and deeply appreciates Pakistan's role as a key ally in the war against terror. Since 9/11, Pakistan has provided invaluable assistance by apprehending more than 460 al Qaeda and Taliban suspects, and ranks third in the world for the amount of terror-related assets frozen.

"We appreciate the considerable resources that Pakistan has devoted to bringing to justice the terrorists who have threatened all civilized people -- Americans, citizens of other nations, and their own Pakistani citizens. We know that Pakistan's sacrifice has included the loss of Pakistani soldiers and police who have died in service to their country. Fighting the scourge of terrorism is clearly in the interests of both our nations. We look forward to and anticipate continued cooperation with Pakistan in the war on terrorism."

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