US wants Pak to work against terrorist sanctuaries

The United States has reiterated its expectation of Islamabad to take action against terrorists in sanctuaries inside Pakistan and reduce "pressure" and "threat of violence" in Afghanistan.

"We have made it clear to the Pakistani Government our expectations for them to take action against terrorists that are in sanctuaries in Pakistan, to reduce pressure and threat of violence in Afghanistan," US Deputy Secretary of State John J Sullivan said, who recently returned from a visit to Kabul.

According to Sullivan, the trip to Afghanistan was an important opportunity for him to reaffirm the US' commitment to strengthening its partnership with the war-torn country.

The top US diplomat traveled to Kabul on January 29 and 30, where he met with President Ghani, Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah Abdullah, and other government officials to discuss the progress made on Afghan security, reforms, and peace initiatives, as the two countries approach the six-month mark following Trump's announcement of the South Asia strategy last year.

"In all of his meetings, the Deputy Secretary focused discussions on the peace process, elections and inclusivity, and advancing development efforts. He also reaffirmed the United States' commitment to working with the government and the people of Afghanistan to bring peace, security, and sustained economic growth to Afghanistan and the region, the US State Department," said in a statement.