2011-01-12 16:05

ISLAMABAD - US Vice President Joe Biden arrived here on Wednesday for talks with Pakistani leaders on cooperation against the militants and more military and economic aid to the country, sources said.

Joe Biden began Pakistan's day-long visit after his trip to neighboring Afghanistan, where he hinted that US troops will stay in Afghanistan until Afghans want them.

The US vice president will meet President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani and the Army Chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, officials said.

Pakistani leaders will apprise Biden of the country's requirements, according to the sources.

Sources said that Joe Biden will share with Pakistani leaders the outcome of his talks with Afghan leaders and will offer more military and economic aid to the insurgency-hit country amidst complaints of insufficient and delay in arrival of aid.

Last month, the US announced to offer more military, intelligence and economic support to Pakistan in the White House Afghanistan war review, according to the US media.

Local media reported that Biden will also push for offensive against the armed groups in North Waziristan tribal region, which the US side considers as the major launching pad for attacks across the border into Afghanistan.

Pakistan insists that it can not afford major military operation as the troops are already engaged and it also lacks financial resources and equipment.

Reports said that Biden will ask Pakistan about its needs and will offer new helicopters and other military equipment.