Obama calls on Gilani

WASHINGTON: Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama met with Pakistan's prime minister during a mix of private discussions on economic and international issues. Obama conferred with Pakistan's new leader, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, after a telephone call with Paulson, Obama's campaign said. Amid intense security, Obama arrived at the posh Willard Hotel for the meeting with Gilani. The entire street in front of the hotel was barricaded, and a tent had been constructed over its entrance. Reporters were kept on the street and the campaign had no plans to release details of their meeting.