Aid for Pakistan in terror fight

The United States and Japan have each pledged $1bn (£671m) to Pakistan so far at an international donors conference.The meeting, in Tokyo, is to help Pakistan stabilise its economy amid fears that financial woes could lead to increased support for militant groups.About 40 countries and organisations are represented at the meeting.The Japanese Prime Minister, Taro Aso, has said that ensuring stability in Pakistan is key in the fight against terrorism in the southwest Asia region.Analysts have suggested that a total of up to $6bn might be pledged at the meeting.Pakistan is home to militant groups, many in the lawless northwestern areas bordering Afghanistan."Without stability in Pakistan, there is no stability in Afghanistan either," Mr Aso said when opening the conference."Stability in border areas is a key and I want to stress that the international community supports comprehensive strategies by the two nations," he said.Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari spoke of his fear that the world does not fully realise the extent of threats facing his country.