‘Tough talking’ Munter vows to combat Pak’s “historical scepticism” against US

WASHINGTON - Dr Cameron Munter, nominated as the new US ambassador to Pakistan, has pledged “ceaseless engagement” to combat the country’s anti-Americanism, saying Washington needs to do a better job in explaining its motives.

Munter, who was earlier posted in Baghdad as the political-military adviser to the US ambassador, said that the US should pursue a long-term commitment to help Pakistan fight Islamic extremism and recover from the devastating floods that have left over 1,600 people dead, the Daily Times reported.

In his confirmation hearing before the US Senate, the veteran diplomat said that US officials needed to be better listeners and work towards building “a lasting relationship with Pakistani counterparts based on honesty and mutual respect”.

“Let’s be honest about this. We need to overcome historical scepticism among Pakistanis about American motives in South Asia, and this will require ceaseless engagement, energy and outreach,” said Munter, known for making strong statements.

The 56-year-old diplomat has a rich experience of working in countries in transition, including his assignments in Prague, Belgrade and Warsaw. He also led the provincial reconstruction team in Mosul (Iraq) in 2006. In his most recent posting, as a military adviser to the US ambassador in Iraq, he directed strategic planning and US civil-military coordination. (ANI)