WASHINGTON: Pakistan remains key to accomplishing the overall objective of a durable political settlement in Afghanistan, says a top US general.
Speaking to Pentagon reporters, Commander of US Central Command Gen Joseph Votel said, “Pakistan’s role is crucial going forward.”
“This is a South Asia strategy, and cooperation from Pakistan remains key to accomplishing the overall objective of a durable political settlement in Afghanistan,” Votel said.
“We continue to work closely with Pakistan to help them fulfill the important role that they have indicated they want to play. Now is the time for them to step forward.”
He said Afghanistan’s security forces are improving, but need more time and support to contend with both Taliban and Islamic State of Iraq and Syria fighters.
“They are fighting and they are taking casualties, but they are also very offensive-minded, inflicting losses on the Taliban and [ISIS-Khorasan] daily, while expanding their capabilities and proficiency every day,” Votel said.
The US Gen said: “ISIS-Khorasan -also known as ISIS-K – is the Khorasan province branch of ISIS, and it is active in Afghanistan and Pakistan.”
About recent ceasefire in Afghanistan, he said the cease-fire demonstrated the increased desire for peace, not only from the Afghan people, but also from the belligerents in the conflict.
