US defence secy hails Pakistan armed forces' operations against terrorists

RAWALPINDI: US Secretary of Defence General James Mattis on Monday hailed Pakistan armed forces’ effective operations against terrorists.

He said this in a two-hour long meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at General Headquarters Rawalpindi on Monday. Meeting was focused on regional security with particular emphasis on Afghanistan as well as other matters of mutual interest.

Media wing of military forces, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Gen Mattis highlighted concern that a few elements continued to use Pakistan’s territory to further their terrorist agenda in Afghanistan.

Read More: Now the the world must do more, say General Bajwa

He assured that US was ready to play its role in addressing Pakistan’s legitimate concerns, saying that his aim was not to make demands but find common grounds to work together, said ISPR.

The Army chief acknowledged history of US engagements with Pakistan especially the ongoing efforts for continuing the positivity for peace in the region.

He said that Pakistan had done much more than its due share despite capacity constraints but shall remain committed for peace as a responsible member of international community.

Bajwa reiterated Pakistan’s support to peace and stability in the region and highlighted Pakistan’s concerns emanating from Indian use of Afghan soil, the necessity and right of Afghan refugees for a respectable and early repatriation and the existence of terrorist safe havens across the border in Afghanistan.

The COAS appreciated the dignitary’s understanding of the underlying issues and said that Pakistan did not require anything from US but understanding.

Read More: COAS says Afghanistan should do more against terrorism

“We have eliminated safe havens from Pakistan’s soil but are prepared to look into the possibility of miscreants exploiting Pakistan’s hospitality to the Afghan refugees to the detriment of our Afghan brothers,” he said.

Both the military leaders agreed to work towards specific and sustained actions on each other’s concerns.