DATE=3-22-02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT 2-

TITLE=U-S-Pakistan Security (S)

NUMBER=2-287880

BYLINE=David Gollust

DATELINE=State Department

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: The State Department is ordering the departure of non-essential employees and dependents from U-S diplomatic posts in Pakistan. The action follows a grenade attack on a church near the U-S embassy in Islamabad last Sunday that killed five people, including an embassy employee and her teenaged daughter. V-O-A's David Gollust reports from the State Department.

TEXT: Officials here say the so-called "ordered departure" of the U-S personnel and dependents is not based on any specific new threats, but follows an overall review of security at the Islamabad embassy and the U-S consulates in Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar.

State Department spokesman Philip Reeker says Secretary of State Powell telephoned Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf from Mexico to inform him of the decision, and to assure him the administration is satisfied with the protection Pakistan is providing U-S diplomats:

///Reeker actuality///

This decision doesn't reflect any lack of confidence in Pakistan's ability to protect Americans. We really appreciate the efforts of President Musharaff and his government.

///end act///

Mr. Reeker said the war against terrorism in Pakistan "is far from over" and that it can be waged with "greater focus" if dependents are not present at U-S facilities. All four diplomatic posts will remain open, but with reduced staffing. (Signed)

NEB/DAG/PT