Readout of the President's call with Pakistani President Zardari

President Obama spoke with Pakistani President Asif Zardari by telephone this morning.  The two leaders discussed the President's decision on the way forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan. 

The President recognized the profound sacrifices Pakistan has made in its efforts to combat extremists in its northwest and emphasized that our goal is to defeat al-Qaida and to ensure stability in the region.  The two presidents agreed that the close partnership between Pakistan and the United States is vital to success, and President Obama promised to continue to assist Pakistan in its efforts against extremists.