The United States on Monday called on the governments of Pakistan and Afghanistan to collaborate and eliminate safe havens of terrorists in the shared-border region. These terrorists are targeting innocent civilians in both the neighboring countries, US State Department Spokesperson John Kirby said.
“There’s a shared interest there, and that’s what we’re focused on,” Kirby told a regular briefing. “We understand the effort [put in by both countries] has not always gone smoothly, but we urge the two governments to continue to work together,” he said, adding this will help eliminating the safe havens of terrorists operating along the border region.
Responding to a question about the Durand Line issue, the spokesperson refused to reply, saying he did not have anything to add to what already has been said on the issue.
He said both Pakistan and Afghanistan have information on the threats posed by the terrorist groups using the border region as a safe haven.
“We understand that the governments in Afghanistan and Pakistan know this themselves and have made efforts in the past to work together and address that threat,” Kirby said.
Earlier, the spokesperson voiced deep sorrow over the passing of Pakistani philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi, who died on July 8.
Describing Edhi as “one of the world’s great humanitarians,” Kirby said Edhi’s compassion, dignity, and humility serve as an example for all. “He led a life dedicated to serving others regardless of religion, class, nationality or ethnicity,” he added.
“We offer our deepest condolences to his wife and his children, the millions that he personally touched, and of course to the people of Pakistan on this sad occasion.” (APP)
