Pak set to re-open NATO supply routes 'under tough conditions'

Islamabad, Mar 15(ANI): Pakistan is likely to re-open the NATO supply routes that it had blocked in protest against the November 26, 2011 deadly air raid on its border posts in Mohmand Agency.

Pakistan's top civil and military leadership has arrived at a consensus on lifting the almost four-month-long blockade later this month after the Pakistan Parliament approves new terms of engagement with the United States, but under 'tough conditions'.

It is, however, unclear what 'tough conditions' Pakistan is considering for unblocking the supply routes.

A much-awaited joint session of Parliament is expected to convene on March 17 to debate and approve new rules of engagements with the US.

An official told The Express Tribune that the meeting reviewed the recommendations finalised by an all-party, bicameral parliamentary panel.

"There was a general consensus among the participants that we now have to reopen the Nato supply routes. For once, we have conveyed our principled position to the US regarding our red lines and we believe that it is very well received in Washington," the official added.

Presidential spokesperson Senator Farhatullah Babar said that the meeting was convened to brief the coalition parties on issues of national security and foreign policy.

He attempted to play down whether any decision had been taken on re-opening the NATO routes.

"It was a routine briefing arranged at the request of the coalition partners," he said, adding that the decision to reopen the supply routes would be taken by Parliament. (ANI)