Pentagon notes commitment to Pakistan

WASHINGTON, May 4 (UPI) -- Washington and Islamabad stressed their commitment to maintain a strong working relationship after the death of Osama bin Laden, the Pentagon said.

Washington hosted a bilateral defense consultation group led by Pakistani Secretary of Defense Syed Athar Ali and Michele Flournoy, the U.S. undersecretary of defense for policy.

"Both delegations acknowledged that the recent counter-terrorism operation resulting in the death of al-Qaida leader Osama bin-Laden underscores the importance of cooperation in our efforts to defeat terrorism," the Defense Department said in a statement. "Both sides affirmed their mutual commitment to their strong defense relations, which they stressed should continue to serve as the foundation of the broader strategic partnership."

Bin Laden was killed during U.S. operations at a compound just miles away from Pakistan's top military academy.

White House spokesman Jay Carney has said U.S. officials need to learn more about the "support network" for bin Laden in Pakistan, warning against "tarring" everyone in the Pakistani government as there has been "a great deal of important cooperation" in the anti-terrorism fight.

Pakistan's intelligence service has faced allegations in the past that it was in close ties with militants in the region.