Go after Haqqanis, other terror networks, Carter tells Gen. Raheel

WASHINGTON (Pajhwok): US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter on Tuesday discussed the current situation in Afghanistan Army Chief Gen. Raheel Sharif, the Pentagon said.

“They discussed the situation in Afghanistan, and how there continues to be issues along the border, and what can be done on the Pakistani side of the border, as well as within Afghanistan, to foster a more stable situation,” said Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook.

He said the secretary made clear the United States felt strongly about the need to go after groups like the Haqqani Network that threatened the United States and forces in Afghanistan.

The two leaders talked about the need to address the issue of concrete action against the Haqqani network and other groups that posed a threat not only to Afghanistan, but to Pakistan itself, Cook said in response to a question.

Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also joined Carter in his meeting with Sharif. They discussed mutual security interests, including security cooperation, Pakistani counterterrorism operations in the federally administered tribal areas, and regional security dynamics.

The secretary expressed his appreciation for Pakistan's ongoing counterterror efforts and condolences for the heavy losses incurred by its security forces and civilians. He underscored the importance of increased Pakistan-Afghanistan cooperation.

Dunford had a separate discussion with Sharif and Gen Lloyd Austin, commander of the US Central Command. They talked about the US-Pakistan relationship and their shared interest in seeing security in the region.

They also conferred on dealing with the terrorism threat not only in Pakistan, but also in neighboring Afghanistanand why continued cooperation was so vital, Cook said.

“The secretary believes that this relationship with Pakistan is important towards promoting regional stability. We are going to continue having our defense dialogue with Pakistan in that light, and welcome their efforts to trying to foster that stability to the extent possible,” he said.

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