Pakistan militant welcomes government talks

A militant leader with alleged ties to al-Qaida has welcomed an offer by Pakistan’s new prime minister to negotiate with Islamic fighters accused of launching terrorist attacks from tribal regions bordering Afghanistan.

Maulvi Faqir Mohammed also said his fighters were not “enemies” of Pakistan, adding “our war is with America”.

Speaking in the Bajur tribal region, Mohammed told more than 4,000 supporters they “welcome” the government’s announcement of talks with the Taliban.

Pakistani authorities claim Mohammed has ties with al-Qaida number two leader Ayman al-Zawahri.

His comments came a day after Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said in his inaugural speech that fighting terrorism was his government’s top priority.