Tillerson asks Pakistan to increase efforts to eradicate terrorists

Islamabad, [Pakistan], October 24 (ANI): United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Tuesday, during his inaugural trip to Pakistan, reiterated U.S. President Donald Trump's message that Islamabad must increase its efforts to eradicate the militants and terrorists operating within the country.

A press release by the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan said, "The Secretary reiterated President Trump's message that Pakistan must increase its efforts to eradicate militants and terrorists operating within the country. The Secretary discussed our continued bilateral cooperation and partnership, expanding economic ties between the United States and Pakistan, and Pakistan's critical role in the region."

"To address those concerns, the Secretary outlined the United States' new South Asia Strategy and the vital role that Pakistan can play in working with the United States and others to facilitate a peace process in Afghanistan that can bring stability and security to the region," the release further read.

Tillerson noted that both countrie share common interests in establishing a stable and peaceful Afghanistan.

The U.S. State Secretary met with Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, who also chaired an inter-agency meeting attended by Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif, Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of Defence Khurram Dastigir Khan, Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence Lt. Gen. Naveed Mukhtar, and other officials.

"The Secretary expressed appreciation for Pakistan's sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. The Secretary also expressed his gratitude to the Government of Pakistan and the Pakistani Army for their cooperation in securing the release of the Boyle-Coleman family from the captivity," the released said.

Tillerson, on Monday, had slammed Pakistan, citing that there were a number of terror groups, which find safe havens in the country.

Meanwhile, Tillerson has arrived in New Delhi for his two-day visit to India.

He is scheduled to hold a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj here, on Wednesday morning. (ANI)