Whom should American and British Speak?

Mr. Gordon BrownGordon Brown wishes to talk to Pakistani President Asif ZardariAsif Zardari on policy matters relating to fighting terrorism on Pakistan-Afghanistan Borders during his next week visit to Britain.

This raises the fundamental question who calls the shots in a parliamentary system of Government- the President or the Prime Minister? Logically, Prime Minister Gordon Brown should discuss these matters with Prime Minister Gillani rather than President Zardari. Yet, the Americans and British continue to live in the General Musharaf era when he called the shots and the PM was only a ceremonial position.

The question of Allied Forces fighting militancy within Pakistan territories is extremely relevant in Pakistan relations with Europe and America. France and Germany has already announced that they are not in favor of Allied Forces fighing militants with in Pakistan territories. The Pakistan Government has in very clear terms announced that It is Pakistan Forces who have the responsibility to fight terrorism in pakistani jurisdiction. Chief of Army Staff pronouncement today is an important evidence of Pakistan resolve. Pakistani PM and Foreign Minister have announced that the COAS Pronouncement reflects Pakistan Policy

Most of us in Pakistan are disappointed with todays talks between Mr. Zardari and Gordon Brown. West has not learnt even now that it needs to talk on most important strategic issues with the prime Minister rather than the president in a Parliamentary system. It is the latter who represents the popular view.