Take sustained, irreversible action against terror: US envoy tells Pak

Islamabad, Sep 23 (IANS) William Todd, the nominated United States Ambassador to Pakistan, has conveyed the Trump administration's expectations stating that "Pakistan must take sustained and irreversible action against terrorism."

Addressing his Senate confirmation hearing, Todd said that the US' relations with India should not come at the expense of Pakistan, adding that the US would be willing to "facilitate dialogue between the two countries to bring down tensions in the region."



"Our hope is that both countries will take the necessary steps to reduce tensions, and as President Trump has offered, we are prepared to facilitate dialogue if both sides request it," he said.



However, Todd said that if Islamabad wants to reduce regional tensions and rebuild a strong relationship with the US, it needs to act against terrorism on its soil.



"Pakistan has taken important steps towards fulfilling that commitment but needs to continue that work," he said.



Todd also spoke about nuclear security and Pakistan's sensitive situation, vowing to work with Pakistan to "advance shared interests in eliminating terrorism from its territory and advancing security in the region."

"Strategic stability and non-proliferation, carrying a clear message on the threat that nuclear weapons pose to the United States, the region, and our allies and partners. Pakistan needs to demonstrate it is prepared to live up to international commitments on weapons of mass destruction," he said.