The United States on Wednesday said normalisation of India-Pakistan relations is vital not only for both countries but also for the entire region. State Department spokesperson John Kirby said India and Pakistan stood to benefit from practical co-operation, and the US encouraged both India and Pakistan to engage in direct dialogue aimed at reducing tensions.
"Steps that initiate closer regional trade and energy ties we believe will create jobs, lower inflation, and increase energy supply," he said. Kirby was answering questions on a meeting between US Secretary of State John Kerry and visiting Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Kerry, according to Kirby, thanked Prime Minister Sharif for Pakistan's regional efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
"Secretary Kerry recognised Pakistan's efforts and sacrifices in targeting extremists in operation Zarb-e-Azb and other operations in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, and both leaders discussed the need for additional efforts to target all terrorists in its territory," Kirby said. The State Department spokesperson said both leaders highlighted the multidimensional nature of the United States-Pakistan partnership and its importance for regional stability and security and US decision to continue with the military presence in Afghanistan beyond 2016.
"They noted that an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process is the surest way to end violence and ensure lasting stability in Afghanistan and in the region. The Secretary thanked Prime Minister Sharif for Pakistan's continued facilitation of reconciliation discussions between the democratically elected Afghan Government and members of the Taliban," Kirby said.