US Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman John Kerry has said that the US relationship with Pakistan is at a 'critical moment' because of the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in a secret US operation in Abbottabad city.
Kerry, who is currently in Pakistan, said that although Pakistan had in the past sacrificed much in the battle against Al-Qaeda and its own domestic insurgency, the killing of bin Laden near Islamabad has raised questions.
The Saudi-born terrorist, who had evaded capture for a decade, was killed on May 2 by a small team of US Special Forces.
"This is a critical moment in terms of the relationship with Pakistan. It is fair to say that some of my colleagues in the House and Senate have deep reservations about whether or not Pakistan is committed to the same goals, or are prepared to be a full partner in pursing those goals," The Daily Times quoted Kerry, as saying.
He further confirmed that there were calls for a shift in the aid programme to Pakistan.
"Unless there is an improvement in the current situation, I think it will be very difficult to argue to the American people that while some programmes are being cut, there ought to be additional funds allocated to the current confused situation," Kerry said.
Kerry met Pakistan Army Chief General Ashfaq Kayani on Sunday and discussed matters of mutual interest with special reference to post Abbottabad scenario. (ANI)
