Trump to Pakistan: Act decisively against terrorists

KABUL to take decisive action against the terrorist groups operating on its soil to help stabilise the region.

Trump issued the call for Pakistan to crack down on the terrorists in a determined way soon after the White House unveiled a new national security strategy on Monday

American media outlets quoted him as saying the US desired to continue its partnership and better relationship with South Asia’s nuclear-capable nation.

Blanket action against the terrorist groups operating on its territory would help improve Pakistan’s security and improve stability in the region, the US president argued.

While seeking Islamabad’s help in battling extremism and terrorism, Trump said Pakistan received massive US assistance for the cause. “They have to help."

America’s new national security strategy takes a hard line on China and Russia. His administration would pursue a greater partnership with the two powers while defending its national interests.

“The US will also encourage Pakistan to continue demonstrating that it is a responsible steward of its nuclear assets,” says the new policy released by the White House.

No partnership could survive a country’s support for militants and terrorists, the Trump administration added. “We will press Pakistan to intensify its counter-terrorism efforts...”

The document continued: “We seek a Pakistan that is not engaged in destabilizing behavior and a stable and self-reliant Afghanistan.”

The new policy also stresses US commitment to supporting the Afghan government and security forces in their fight against the Taliban, Al Qaeda, ISIS and other terrorists.

The US pledged to continue promoting anti-corruption reform in Afghanistan to increase the legitimacy of its government and reduce the appeal of violent extremist outfits.

PAN Monitor/mud