Military

DATE=2/17/04

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=PENTAGON/AFGHAN/PAKISTAN (L O)

NUMBER=2-313190

BYLINE=ALEX BELIDA

DATELINE=PENTAGON

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: A top U-S military commander says Pakistan is taking, what he terms, promising moves to deny terrorists sanctuary in the remote area along its border with Afghanistan. More from Correspondent Alex Belida at the Pentagon.

TEXT: Army Lieutenant General David Barno, commander of U-S forces in Afghanistan, says Pakistan, in his words, is making "great progress" in working in its so-called tribal areas along the border.

Speaking from Afghanistan by satellite with reporters at the Pentagon, the general says that in recent weeks Pakistani security forces have been undertaking operations to uncover and disrupt the al-Qaida terrorist group in the frontier region.

He calls the effort "encouraging" and holds the "greatest promise" of ensuring the terrorists are driven out.

General Barno says he is engaged in regular talks with Pakistani security authorities and indicates joint anti-terrorist operations may take place soon.

/// BARNO ACT ///

As we work with the Pakistani military, we are moving in the direction of cooperative operations on both sides of the border. A hammer and anvil approach if you will, where al-Qaida may be driven from the Pakistani side and we are ready to receive them on the Afghan side, use our forces in concert with Afghan forces on this side of the border to be able to crush the al-Qaida elements between the Pakistani and the coalition forces.

/// END ACT ///

General Barno says the presence of Pakistani forces in the tribal areas -- the first in the country's history -- has enabled them to hold tribal elders accountable for terrorist activities in the region. He says those who do not cooperate are punished with house demolitions and other measures.

General Barno calls Pakistan's presence in the border area a major step forward. He says U-S officials are watching developments with great interest and what he terms "some cautious optimism" that it will have a positive impact.

The U-S commander declines to elaborate on joint operations that may be in the offing with Pakistan along the frontier.

But recent news reports have said U-S forces in Afghanistan are preparing for an offensive against the al-Qaida and the Taleban within the next four months. (SIGNED)

NEB/BEL/RAE/KL