US presses Pakistan to target Taliban sanctuaries
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, Oct 21, IRNA -- US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton on Friday asked Pakistan to act against Afghan militants and target Taliban sanctuaries, local media reported.
“Militants should be targeted on both sides of the border,” Clinton said during a news conference held alongside Pakistani Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar.
The US has stepped up pressure on Pakistan to take military action against the Haqqani militant network, which allegedly operates from Pakistani tribal region.
Clinton expressing her views added that Pakistan was critical to regional security and the US respected the country’s sovereignty.
She said that the US and Afghan forces have “successfully” responded to Pakistan’s legitimate concern regarding terrorists working from the Afghan side of the border, and that Pakistan is expected to do the same.
She also added that a plan is needed to move forward after the talks, and the process needs to be transparent, reiterating the need for a stable and secure Afghanistan.
Clinton said that the US continues to support the democratic process and economic prosperity in Pakistan.
She added that the US government wants to foster sustainable development in Pakistan, and wants to maintain a relationship of mutual respect and responsibility.
Pakistani Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar said misunderstandings between Pakistan and the US should be resolved and both sides were having discussions on issues of mutual interest.
Khar added that Pakistan supported an Afghan led reconciliation process.
She stated that the world must not forget Pakistan’s sacrifices and losses in the war on terror.
Khar added that Pakistan has suffered economically as well as lost thousands of lives in the fight against terror, and has showed great commitment as a partner in the war.
**1420
Islamic Republic News Agency/IRNA NewsCode: 30623118
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