'Bilateral relationship between US and Pakistan seems to be driven by giving priority to US national security interests in the region rather those of Pakistan,' Rabbani observed while chairing a Senate session, according to IRNA.
He added that he has great respect for the US Congress and congressmen, but as a parliamentarian he has serious concerns over bilateral ties between Islamabad and Washington.
Referring to US’ tilt towards India in recent years, Rabbani stated that US has an agreement with India on civil nuclear cooperation, but refuses to offer Pakistan a similar deal, casting doubt on Pakistan’s utility for the US at a time when major combat operations have winded down in Afghanistan.
Rabbani also expressed reservations that US did not hold court martial of its officers and men who according to their own inquiry are responsible for the bombing of a hospital in Afghanistan, which killed women and children.
Sartaj Aziz, advisor to the prime minister of Pakistan on foreign affairs, also supported the reservations of chairman of Senate.
Pakistan and the US ties are tense following a number of issues, including the recent problems the US Congressmen have made against F-16 fighter jets sale to Pakistan.
Pakistan had earlier raised the unresolved issue of F-16 sale to Pakistan and expressed concern with the visiting commander of US Central Command (Centcom) General Joseph Votel.