The United States has pledged continued support for Pakistan's fight against terror, as Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and White House National Security Advisor discussed bilateral relations, efforts for regional stability and the need to align support for Afghan reconciliation. "They agreed to continue working together as partners against the threat of terrorism," the White House said in a statement, after the meeting.
"They also discussed ways to mutually support regional stability in the near term, highlighting the need to align support for Afghan-led reconciliation efforts and continue regular US-Pakistani engagement," the statement added. Ambassador Rice commended the role played by Pakistan's delegation, which Minister Khan led, at the White House-hosted Summit on Countering Violent Extremism.
President Obama's Special Assistant on Afghanistan and Pakistan Jeff Eggers joined NSA Rice in the meeting, the Pakistani embassy said. "The two leaders exchanged views on matters of mutual interest in both bilateral and regional context. Expressing satisfaction on the state of play in the bilateral relationship, both sides agreed to continue the momentum of co-operation generated in the wake of last Ministerial session of the strategic dialogue process held in Islamabad."
Rice "commended the resolve of the leadership and people of Pakistan to deal with terrorism in a comprehensive manner. NSA Rice assured the Interior Minister of the continued US support for Pakistan's efforts to eliminate terrorism." Noting the timely US initiative to convene the Summit on Countering Violent Extremism, the Interior Minister apprised NSA Rice about the ongoing military operations and steps being taken in follow up to the National Action Plan to eliminate terrorism. Rice appreciated the sacrifices and commitment of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and extremism.