US asks India, Pak to contribute to stability in S Asia

Amid heightened tension between India and Pakistan at the LoC, the US today asked both the countries to contribute to stability and prosperity in the region and hoped a solution will be found to the issues affecting relations between the two neighbours.
"....We hope both the nations continue to find a solution to current issues and to work towards a greater cooperation and contribute to the stability and prosperity," US Ambassador Nancy Powell said here when asked about the incidents of firing between the two nations along LoC.
On the broader issue of terrorism, she said "we all recognise there is much more that can be done by all countries of the world in countering terrorism and we continue to support that."

She was speaking after releasing Observer Research Foundation's new publication 'America in the Asian Century'.
Terming India as most important partner for the US in the region, she spoke on a range of issues concerning the two countries--from the civil nuclear deal to India's permanent membership in United Nations Security Council.
Emphasising India's importance for the US, Powell said "South Asia is a crucial driver for America's growth and economy and any discussion of South Asia has to start with India. It is a trusted and valuable partner. Our relationship is broader than it has ever been."
On the situation in Afghanistan, particularly after the pullout of the NATO forces next year, Powell said the trilateral dialogue between India, the US and Afghanistan "has provided us a forum for expressing the concerns and developing solutions for the same.