WASHINGTON : The United States has endorsed Pakistan’s sovereign right to defend itself against terrorist attacks, while acknowledging Islamabad’s military and nuclear superiority over Afghanistan.
In a statement, the State Department noted that Pakistan has suffered greatly from terrorism and possesses significantly greater military capabilities than its neighbor. The US also reaffirmed Pakistan’s status as a key non-NATO ally, with relations improving since President Trump’s return to the White House.
Washington further acknowledged Pakistan’s mediating role in efforts to resolve tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran. The State Department reiterated that the Afghan Taliban remains designated as a terrorist organization.
Meanwhile Pakistan Confirms Progress in US-Iran Indirect Talks in Doha
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said indirect talks between the United States and Iran made positive progress during a new round of mediation in Doha by Qatari and Pakistani officials.
In a statement, the ministry said Qatari and Pakistani mediators held separate meetings with the U.S. and Iranian negotiating teams.
The discussions focused on issues related to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, the ministry said. It did not disclose further details.
The ministry said the latest discussions built on progress achieved at the Lake Lucerne summit. Both sides agreed to continue negotiations and hold another round of talks as soon as possible.
According to the statement, the next meeting will take place after the completion of funeral ceremonies for Iran’s former supreme leader.
Pakistan described the development as an important step in ongoing diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran.
