Pakistan Army chief General Raheel Sharif’s commitment to fighting militancy has won him accolades from Washington, with US Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Dan Feldman pronouncing that the top military commander “is an extremely articulate spokesperson for Pakistan’s interests”.
In an interview to a media outfit, Ambassador Feldman said Gen Sharif had received “very broad support for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism campaign”.
During his visit, Gen Sharif met a wide range of US officials — in both military and civil establishments — as part of an effort to rebuild a long-term relationship between the two militaries.
“We had very straightforward, constructive and honest discussions on the need to go after all terrorists, including the Haqqani network, and to make sure that all terrorist safe havens are shut down,” said Ambassador Feldman when asked if the visit achieved its goals.
“Yes, we all recognise that significant progress has been made” in the fight against terrorists since the North Waziristan operation,” he said.
“We also recognise that more work needs to be done, but there’s true commitment from Gen Sharif to deliver on this.”
“People in Washington were very pleased with his commitment” to fighting all terrorists, including the Haqqani network, he said.
Ambassador Feldman noted that the effort to rebuild a long-term relationship between the two militaries had begun several years ago. “The visit continues that process and helps strengthen the relationship,” he said, while dispelling the impression that the FBI action against Ambassador Robin Raphel was meant to send the message that it was no longer kosher for Americans to be friends with Pakistan.
“Pakistan has many friends in Washington. Many, many, many people are committed and dedicated to making sure that this relationship continues,” said Feldman.
