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Rice spoke to reporters as she flew to Islamabad for talks with Pakistani leaders.
Rice had praise for both the Afghan and Pakistani governments for fighting militants, but said the two countries could benefit if the governments work more closely together.
Rice denied that the Taliban has been making a comeback, saying the militia has not been resurging as a political force but has only been trying to be destructive through violent acts.
Rice offered fresh support for Afghan President Hamid Karzai, saying he has been "doing an extremely difficult job well."
She also backed Pakistani President General Pervez Musharraf, saying he has helped put Pakistan on a course toward moderation.
(Reuters, AP)
