US hopes Pakistan will help in war on terrorism

washington — The US on Tuesday expressed hope that Pakistan would “come to the table” and demonstrate willingness to “aggressively” confront terrorist groups that allegedly operate from its territory, amid reports that Islamabad has suspended its military and intelligence cooperation with America.

When asked to comment on Pakistan’s reported move, US Under Secretary of State Steve Goldstein said: “We’re hopeful for future cooperation from Pakistan.”

“We stand ready to work with Pakistan in combating all terrorists without distinction, and we hope to be able to renew and deepen our bilateral security relationship when Pakistan demonstrates its willingness to aggressively confront the Taleban network, the Haqqani Network, and other terrorist and militant groups that operate from its territory,” he said.

The US has been clear on this issue to Pakistan, Goldstein said.

“We would like Pakistan to come to the table and assist us in this effort,” he said adding that the suspension of security aid is not a cutoff and no funds have been reprogrammed.

Referring to his conversation with the US Ambassador to Pakistan, Goldstein hoped that Pakistan will join the US in its effort with regard to fight against terrorism.

“The Pakistani people have suffered greatly from terrorism, and its security forces have been effective in combating the groups that target Pakistan’s interest. So, it’s to their benefit to join with us in helping resolve this matter,” Goldstein said.

“We always look at that; but again, it’s a suspension and not a cutoff. We haven’t reprogrammed the funds. We’re hopeful that Pakistan will come back to the table and do what they told us that they would do,” he said.

The US and others have long complained that Pakistan offered safe haven to the Afghan Taleban and their allies, the Haqqani Network, allowing them to carry out cross-border attacks in Afghanistan. Pakistan denies allegations. — PTI