ISLAMABAD, Jan 9 (APP): Vice President‑elect of the US, Joseph R. Biden on Friday discussed with President Asif Zardari Pakistan‑US relations including counter‑terrorism cooperation, situation in the region and other issues of mutual interest. US senator Lindsey Graham was also present in the meeting.

The President called for a close, stable, long‑term and broad based relationship between Pakistan and the United States for promoting peace, stability and progress in the region and beyond.

He said that Pakistan was committed to fight terrorism and extremism in its own interest.

He said Pakistan needed the support and understanding of the international community in this effort.

The President also apprised the Vice President‑ elect of democratic government’s economic priorities and the policies being framed to achieve socio‑economic progress.

Joseph Biden underscored that the United States valued its ties with Pakistan, which was one of the most important relationship for his country.

He described Pakistan as an incredibly valued US ally and said that U.S. recognized Pakistan’s important contribution and sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.

Biden assured that the new US administration would support Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen democracy, countering terrorism and would also assist to meet its socio‑economic requirements and capacity building.

The US Vice President, who is also the co‑author of Biden‑Lugar Bill in the Senate, assured the Pakistani leadership of US incoming administration’s continued assistance to Pakistan.

He expressed the hope that both Pakistan and India will be able to overcome the current tensions and would resolve their differences peacefully.