US to work with Pakistan on cross-border terrorism

WASHINGTON: The US has said it will continue to work with Pakistan to combat cross-border militancy and shut down safe havens of terrorists in the country's tribal areas.

"Countering cross-border militancy and shutting down safe havens is critical not only for Pakistan's long-term peace and prosperity, but also for positive relations between Pakistan and all of its neighbours, including Afghanistan," State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki said yesterday.

"So we appreciate the efforts (of Pakistan in this regard), but obviously this is an issue we'll continue to work on," she said.

Earlier, Deputy Secretary of State William Burns concluded his day-long visit to Pakistan during which he met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and discussed a range of issues, including cross border terrorism and terrorist safe havens.

"These are issues where we have worked closely on with the Pakistani Government, where we may have shared concerns on, including counter-terrorism efforts and cooperation on that front. So it just indicates a continuing partnership with Pakistan and a commitment to working closely on these issues," Psaki added.