US Senator McCain acknowledges Pakistan's efforts in fight against terrorism

Tariq Fatemi apprises US senators about increasing negative implications for peace due to Indian hostility

US Chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Services John McCain on Friday acknowledged Pakistan's efforts against terrorism, saying the US will continue cooperation in this regard.

He made these remarks while talking to Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi who also met foreign policy experts and US government representatives in Washington.

The Special Assistant apprised US Senate Foreign Relations Committee about the increasing negative implications for peace prospects in South Asia in view of Indian hostility and belligerence.

Fatemi also pointed out massive human rights violations by Indian forces in held Kashmir as well as continued tension across the Line of Control.



He said Pakistan attached great importance to its ties with the United States, an important strategic partner in both the security and economic domains. We look forward to strengthening these bonds in future with the new administration, he added.

Special Assistant said that efforts were ongoing to normalise relations with India and Afghanistan as Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif believed in maintaining a peaceful and prosperous neighbourhood. Fatemi, however, lamented at the absence of any reciprocal desire on the part of some of the country's neighbours.

Fatemi deemed encouraging the US President-elect's indications that the US was willing to play its part in helping with certain issues facing the region.



He highlighted that Pakistan sacrificed thousands of lives of civilians and security personnel in the fight against terrorism, adding country's resolve to eradicate the menace had grown stronger. He highlighted that Pakistan Army had conducted a successful operation against terrorists in North Waziristan.

Fatemi appreciated the US Congress for authorising critical counter-terrorism assistance that helped Pakistan eradicate terrorist networks operating from Fata and promoting peace and stability in the region.

The US leadership acknowledged Pakistan's role in promoting regional peace and security and expressed the desire to strengthen bilateral ties with Pakistan.