LONDON: The United States has welcomed improvement in bilateral relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan and regarded it a step towards regional stability.
In a meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of London Conference on Afghanistan, the US Secretary of State John Kerry assured Pakistan with the full support of his country in this regard.
The US Secretary of State also acknowledged Pakistan’s contribution and sacrifices in the war on terror.
The two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and regional situation during the meeting.
The prime minister apprised the US secretary of state about the ongoing military operation Zarb-e-Azb in the country’s northwestern tribal region against various outlawed militant outfits.
Sharif said that 80 per cent of the area has been cleared of miscreants and the operation will continue till their complete elimination.
The premier said that Pakistan’s intensive anti-terrorism cooperation and efforts for regional peace and security need to be better recognized by the international community.
Nawaz Sharif said that a stable, prosperous and democratic Afghanistan was in Pakistan’s best interest and added that his country looks forward to having a good working relationship with the new Afghan government.