The United States Monday welcomed Pakistan's decision to reinstate its top judge as a move to "defuse a serious confrontation" and a "substantial step towards national reconciliation." "This is a statesmanlike decision taken to defuse a serious confrontation, and the apparent removal of this long-standing national issue is a substantial step towards national reconciliation," said the US embassy in Islamabad. "Now is the time for all Pakistanis and their political representatives to work together, with the support of their friends and allies, to peacefully strengthen their democracy and ensure a positive dialogue," it added.