The United States has reiterated its commitment to assisting Pakistan in its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
In a media briefing on Monday, Matthew Miller - the spokesperson for the US State Department - emphasised that the US remains steadfast in its support of Pakistan's fight against these threats.
"We continue to stand with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism and violent extremism," Miller stated during the weekly briefing in Washington.
His comments come at a time of heightened tensions in Pakistan following violent clashes between protestors and law enforcement.
Miller also addressed the importance of ensuring that protests worldwide, including in Pakistan, are conducted peacefully.
"It is crucial that demonstrations, wherever they occur, remain peaceful," he remarked, urging the Pakistani government to engage with protestors in a manner that promotes peace and avoids further violence.
The remarks follow violent incidents during a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest on November 24, where at least three Rangers personnel and two police officers lost their lives in clashes.
PTI, led by former prime minister Imran Khan claimed that the security forces’ crackdown also led to the deaths of at least 20 of their own members, with over 1,000 PTI supporters arrested, including several Afghan nationals.
In the same briefing, Miller was questioned about the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly regarding the alleged conspiracy to assassinate a Sikh leader. The spokesperson confirmed that the issue had been raised during discussions with Indian officials, although he refrained from providing further details on private diplomatic exchanges.
When asked about the upcoming US presidential transition, Miller avoided commenting on President-elect Donald Trump's position regarding Pakistan or any military support before the transfer of power. "It is not appropriate for me to comment on policies of an administration that has not yet taken office," he said.
Miller’s statements also addressed the ongoing concerns over US-India relations, but he stopped short of making any definitive remarks about the Biden administration’s approach to providing modern weaponry to Pakistan. "I have nothing to announce at this time," he concluded.
