The United States has termed the controversy over the deportation of former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif to Jeddha an internal matter of the country as Washington appreciated Islamabad's role in counter-terrorism efforts during a crucial strategic dialogue in Islamabad.

"As far as the issue of Nawaz Sharif, we view it as an internal, Pakistani political and legal matter and it is for the government and people and authorities of Pakistan to decide," said US deputy secretary John Negroponte at the conclusion of a day-long strategic dialogue between the two allies.

"We are supportive of a political process that is peaceful. We look forward to democratic elections being held in Pakistan quite shortly and we think it is important that there will be a smooth and democratic political transition," the top diplomat said.

Pakistan deported Sharif to Saudi Arabia when he returned to the country after seven year of exile on Monday.

The deputy secretary said the US wanted long-term and robust relationship with Pakistan and Washington's policy towards the tribal areas in the South Asian nation was characterised by respect for the country's sovereignty.

"If we intend to carry out whatever activities we do in the tribal areas there will be complete respect for the sovereignty of Pakistan," Negroponte said.

"There is no doubt about Pakistan's commitment to restore and establish security in tribal areas and is doing more than its share in the war against terror," he said at a news conference. 

Negroponte said the US is working with Pakistan on a three pronged strategy in the tribal areas which included security, dialogue and development.