The U.S. has not confirmed any anti-terror assurances from Pakistan following a high-level delegation visit. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to discuss specifics of the talks while acknowledging discussions on counterterrorism cooperation. The U.S. remains supportive of the India-Pakistan ceasefire but has not indicated any new commitments from Pakistan regarding terrorism. Deputy Secretary of State emphasized U.S. support for India while questions linger regarding potential mediation efforts by President Trump.
The recent visit by a high-level Pakistani delegation led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has prompted questions about counterterrorism commitments from Pakistan, yet the U.S. remains tight-lipped on the matter. During a press briefing, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce did not confirm whether any assurances were made by Islamabad regarding actions against terrorist organizations operating within its borders. “I am not going to discuss the details of those conversations,” she stated, reflecting the U.S. government’s silence on specific commitments.
Last week, the Pakistani parliamentary delegation engaged with senior U.S. officials, including Undersecretary for Political Affairs Alison Hooker. Ms. Bruce indicated that discussions primarily revolved around multiple key aspects of the bilateral relationship, particularly counterterrorism cooperation. In addition to these discussions, Ms. Hooker emphasized the U.S.’s commitment to supporting the ongoing ceasefire between India and Pakistan, highlighting the significance of maintaining regional stability.
Interestingly, despite the discussions, there were no public disclosures suggesting that Pakistan provided fresh commitments to curb terror groups from its territory. This remains an essential issue, especially concerning U.S.-India relations, which have been notably affected by terrorism issues connected to Pakistan. Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau also met an Indian parliamentary delegation, where he upheld America’s support for India in its anti-terror efforts.
When asked about President Trump’s previous offer to mediate the India-Pakistan dispute following the ceasefire, Ms. Bruce responded with caution. She mentioned that she cannot speak for the President or the administration’s future plans. “What I do know… is that President Trump, in each step that he takes, it’s made to solve generational differences between countries, generational war,” she noted.
Moreover, while she recognized President Trump’s ability to bring various parties to the negotiating table, she omitted specifics about potential mediation concerning Kashmir. “You can call the White House… they would have plenty to say,” she remarked, suggesting that further information could be obtained there.
The U.S. has refrained from providing any details regarding Pakistan’s counterterrorism pledges during the recent high-level visit. It appears the discussions were extensive, focusing on various aspects of the bilateral relationship, though no new commitments from Pakistan have been publicly stated. Moreover, the situation remains delicate as the U.S. continues to maintain its supportive stance towards India amid ongoing concerns related to terrorism and regional stability.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
