The United States has strongly condemned the Bajaur suicide blast in Pakistan, pledging its commitment to support Pakistan against the ‘shared threats’ from regional terrorist groups. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller voiced this sentiment during a recent press briefing. He further commended Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts to preserve the rule of law and protect human rights.
Miller unequivocally denounced the suicide attack on a political gathering in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district, where 54 people died. He expressed profound sympathy for the victims, stating that no country should be subjected to such acts of terror.
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Miller was also questioned on the recent Doha meeting with the Taliban, particularly regarding any commitments from the Taliban about preventing cross-border terror attacks. In response, he underscored the consistent US position on ensuring Afghanistan does not become a launchpad for regional or global terrorist activities.
On the possible military support requested by Pakistan in countering escalating terrorist threats, Miller declined to discuss specific dialogues but confirmed the State Department’s ongoing funding for several Pakistani counter-terrorism programmes.
Regarding the China-Pakistan relationship, Miller reiterated the US’s unwavering support for Pakistan’s economic success, emphasizing the need for transparency, sustainable financing practices, and the protection of national and data security for investments to benefit Pakistan and its global partners.