ISLAMABAD: The new US President, Mr Gerald R. Ford, has assured Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto of his firm dedication to the US policies of strengthening of world pe­­ace and the preservation of the traditionally close relations between Pakistan and the Uni­­ted States. In a message to the Prime Minister, Mr Ford said he was fully committed to honouring all international obligations undertaken by the US in its relations with Pakistan and with all other nations of the world.

Following is the text of President Ford’s message: As I take up the office of President of the United States, I am as one of my first acts writing to assure you of my firm dedication to the policies the [US] has been following in the strengthening of world peace. … Mr Prime Minister, I believe deeply that the close and substantive relationship that our countries have enjoyed over many years has made an important contribution to the objective of world peace. …

I know that all Americans have felt a special regard for Pakistan in its impressive efforts to build a stronger society in the aftermath of the difficulties of 1971. We have admired the strong contribution that your people and Government have made … in South Asia.

Published in Dawn, August 11th, 2024