US, Pakistan launch strategic dialogue

The United States and Pakistan have launched a two-day, high-level strategic dialogue. Top diplomats say they want much broader ties between the two nations.

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi are vowing to improve ties by expanding the security focus to include energy, development, education and agriculture.

Clinton described the meetings between the two sides as "critical", and said her country wants a new relationship with Pakistan based on deepening cooperation and mutual trust.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (R) and visiting Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi hold a press briefing following their meeting at the State Department in Washington D.C., capital of the United States, March 24, 2010. (Xinhua/Zhang Jun)