FROM AMBASSADOR HOLBROOKE: KUDOS FOR PAKISTAN

UNCLAS STATE 025830 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV PREL PK SUBJECT: FROM AMBASSADOR HOLBROOKE: KUDOS FOR PAKISTAN POSTS REPORTING ON POLITICAL CRISIS AND "LONG MARCH" ¶1. The Secretary and I wish to commend Embassy Islamabad and Consulate Lahore for their outstanding reporting, analysis and for their effective advocacy of USG positions during Pakistan,s ongoing political crisis. Whether by cable, e-mail or telephone, posts succeeded in keeping Washington fully apprised of complex events as they unfolded. We wish equally to thank Ambassador Anne Patterson and Principal Officer Bryan Hunt for their efforts. ¶2. While many of the cables merit individual kudos (Islamabad 560, 553, 552, 542 and 540 and Lahore 50, 49, 44 and 38 are excellent examples ),it was the totality of posts, effort, rather than any individual report, that marked the performance as exemplary. Pakistan is a critical regional ally and an important partner in the war against terrorism. Washington's interest in Pakistan was already intense and was only sharpened as the recent crisis unfolded. Posts, efforts kept our most senior policy makers fully informed of events occurring in a constantly-shifting and dangerous political environment on a 24/7 basis. ¶3. This superb effort highlights the commitment and energy we have come to expect from our Pakistan posts. Again, kudos and keep up the good work. CLINTON