U.S. Secretary of Defence General James Mattis on Monday met Pakistani Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and underscored the importance of continuing and deepening cooperation for the common objective of “eliminating terrorism” from the region.
A statement by the Prime Minister’s Office said Mr. Abbasi told Gen. Mattis that Pakistan, in its national interest, would continue to conduct intelligence-based operations all over the country to consolidate the gains achieved in the last four years. “The Prime Minister reiterated that there are no safe heavens in Pakistan and the entire nation was committed to its resolve on eradicating terrorism once and for all in all its forms and manifestations,” the statement said.
Mr. Abbasi underlined the need for a broad-based engagement to strengthen partnership and enhance cooperation between the two countries. The Prime Minister said no other country benefits more from peace and stability in Afghanistan than Pakistan. He agreed with Secretary Mattis that both Pakistan and the U.S. have common stakes in securing peace and security in Afghanistan for the long-term stability of the broader region. The Prime Minister also appreciated the U.S. resolve not to allow the use of Afghan soil against Pakistan.
Common grounds
The statement quoted Gen. Mattis as saying that the purpose of his visit was to find common grounds in order to create a positive, consistent and long-term relationship with Pakistan. “He emphasised that in view of his long association with Pakistan, he was keenly aware of the sacrifices rendered and the lives lost in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism and extremism; and his personal respect and appreciation for the professional abilities of Pakistan’s armed forces ,” the statement said.
