US asks Pak to shut havens for terrorists

The US has asked Pakistan to close all terrorist safe havens and target all militant groups, including those that target neighbouring countries, after India made a strong pitch at the UN for isolating nations who nurture, paddle and export terror.

“Our focus with Pakistan is to enhance their capability and to deal with terrorist threats on their soil. They are fighting a serious and sustained campaign against violent extremism,” White House deputy spokesperson Mark Toner said.

“We do believe that they are making progress and taking steps to counter terrorist violence, but at the same time we have been very clear that they need to target all militant groups, including those that target Pakistan’s neighbours, and close all safe havens,” he said.

Mr Toner said the US believes India and Pakistan really stand to benefit from the normalisation of relations.

“We have long said that with regard to Pakistan, with regard to India, with regard to the region, there is no zero- sum game here. We are pursuing very close relations with India,” the deputy spokesperson said.

“Similarly, we want to see Pakistan better able to respond to the threat that terrorism poses and terrorist groups that seek refuge in its territory,” Mr Toner added.