Countering Terrorism
During a crucial two-day visit to Islamabad, United States Special Representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, reiterated Washington’s commitment to standing with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism, particularly addressing challenges posed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). West held key meetings on regional security and the protection of Afghan refugees, among other vital matters.
The US envoy shared details of his discussions with Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan Asif Durrani, and Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani. These meetings emphasized the multifaceted aspects of Pakistan-US relations, extending beyond the focus on Afghanistan.
2/2 The United States stands with Pakistan against terrorism in the region. We are also grateful for close communication with Islamabad re: refugee protection issues, including collaboration with IOs and humane and dignified treatment.
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) December 8, 2023
The Foreign Office had earlier confirmed the visits of senior US officials to Pakistan, emphasizing that the discussions would cover various dimensions of the bilateral relationship. FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch highlighted that both sides would address reservations and objections during these talks.
In a series of posts on social media, West expressed gratitude for close communication with Islamabad regarding refugee protection issues and collaboration with international organizations for the humane and dignified treatment of refugees. He departed Islamabad after addressing grave security challenges posed by the TTP and discussing the imperative to protect Afghan refugees.
The US envoy also devoted time to discussing issues surrounding Afghan refugees in Pakistan with the leadership of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The conversations focused on supporting vulnerable and at-risk Afghans, with the US contributing $77 million to UNHCR and $9 million to IOM this year for related efforts.
West also met with Afghan refugees during his visit, expressing admiration for their courage under challenging circumstances. He called for their protection and thanked UNHCR, IOM, and other partners for their efforts.
2/2 Also met courageous Afghan refugees to hear about their lives first-hand. Admire their courage under wrenching circumstances. We call for their protection and thank UNHCR, IOM, other partners for their efforts.
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) December 9, 2023
The high-level talks between the US and Pakistan underscore the importance of addressing regional security challenges and collaborating on humanitarian issues, reflecting the depth and complexity of the bilateral relationship. Overall, US Envoy West Affirms Washington’s Commitment to Stand with Pakistan in Countering Terrorism, Facing TTP Challenges.
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