Pompeo calls on Pakistan to act against ‘terrorists’

Washington: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo pressed new Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in a phone call to take “decisive action” against “terrorists” operating in Pakistan, the US State Department said.

Pompeo wished Khan success in the wake of his being sworn in as prime minister in Islamabad Saturday following victory in July 25’s elections, said State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert.

“Secretary Pompeo expressed his willingness to work with the new government towards a productive bilateral relationship,” Nauert said.

He also “raised the importance of Pakistan taking decisive action against all terrorists operating in Pakistan and its vital role in promoting the Afghan peace process.”

Pakistan’s Foreign Office Spokesman Mohammad Faisal denied in a tweet that the issue of terrorism had been discussed at all.

“Pakistan takes exception to the factually incorrect statement issued by US State Dept on today’s phone call btwn PM Khan & Sec Pompeo,” he wrote.

“There was no mention at all in the conversation about terrorists operating in Pakistan.”

But Nauert later stuck by her original statement.

Khan raised concerns that he would remain tolerant of militants, willing to hold talks with them and having sought support in the polls from religious hardliners. — AFP