TIL Desk/World/Islamabad/ The United States has made it clear that it expects Islamabad to take action against terrorists in sanctuaries inside Pakistan, a top American diplomat has said. Deputy Secretary of State John J Sullivan, who recently returned from a visit to Afghanistan, said the US also expects Pakistan to contribute to a lasting and enduring peace in the region.
“That was certainly part of my conversations with the Afghan leadership,” Sullivan said in a briefing with reporters on his return. “We have made clear to the Pakistani government our expectations for them to take action against terrorists that are in sanctuaries in Pakistan, to reduce the pressure and the threat of violence in Afghanistan,” he said.
The trip to Afghanistan, Sullivan said, was an important opportunity for him to reaffirm the US’ commitment to strengthening its partnership with the country. He met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani; Chief Executive, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah; Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani and other government leaders during the visit.
“During each of these meetings, Afghanistan’s leadership made it clear to me that despite the recent tragic events, the Afghan government will continue to work to create the necessary conditions to bring the Taliban to the negotiating table, and establish an environment for a sustained piece,” Sullivan said.
