KABUL, a former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief has opined.
The Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) quoted Michael Hayden as saying on Saturday the US should not withdraw all its military personnel from Afghanistan over the next two years.
“I strongly believe that a residual American force is good for America, good for Afghanistan and good for Pakistan,” remarked, Hayden, who led the powerful intelligence network from 2006 to 2008.
In interviews with Pakistan’s private news channels, the ex-CIA chief called for counterterrorism cooperation between Kabul and Islamabad.
“We understand the problem of safe havens on both sides of the border. What we need is our two friends Afghanistan and Pakistan work hard to eliminate those safe havens…”
Hayden said thought the Pakistan Army would never launch an offensive against the insurgents in North Waziristan Agency, bordering Afghanistan.
“But they have, and I am very heartened to see that. I think that is a very positive sign. There should be followed-up steps to improve education, reconstruct the areas and create economic opportunity for the people.”
PAN Monitor/mud
