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“In fact, we are developing a joint campaign plan so that we approach the entire problem together and as much as possible, we can make our efforts synergistic,” Gen McChrystal told reporters at the residence of the US Ambassador after holding talks with military commanders here and visiting Swat.
He said strong partnership between the US and Pakistan was critical for counter-insurgency operations on both sides of the border. “The most important thing we can do is to coordinate our operations with the Pakistan Army and then there is, of course, going to be political coordination,” he said.
In contrast to some other US officials, who have been lecturing Pakistanis on the need to “do more” in the fight against extremist elements, Gen McChrystal repeatedly called for “partnership” between the two countries and said that differences should not detract them from their aims.
Referring to the often-discussed trust deficit between the two countries, he said the level of mistrust had declined but it needed to be narrowed. Surprisingly, Gen McChrystal did not broach either the Haqqani Network or the Quetta Shura - the two problems that have posed serious challenges to cooperation between the two countries.
The Pakistan Army, which is engaged in a campaign against militant groups operating from its soil, has been accused of ignoring Afghanistan-focused groups, prompting critics to claim that Islamabad - fearful of the growing Indian influence in the war-torn country - was trying to preserve these factions as future assets for keeping its influence in Afghanistan.
Gen McChrystal, all praise for the military’s counter-insurgency campaign and the leadership of Army Chief Gen Kayani, said he had no reasons to doubt Pakistan Army’s sincerity. “I’m hopeful of the time when the Haqqani Network, which is causing damage inside Afghanistan, is taken on by both of us jointly to reduce the damage they are causing. It is important that we together do that,” he said.
About the Quetta Shura of the Taliban, he said that the best course was cooperation with Pakistan military. He opposed any direct action against the Shura. “The Taliban that threatens Afghanistan needs to be pressured everywhere. Partnership with Pakistan is the best road to that, as we strengthen the strategic partnership. That is the best way, I think,” he said.
He said that successes against Taliban in Pakistan and Afghanistan were interlinked and could not be achieved in isolation. “If Afghanistan suffers from instability it is going to be contagious. Everybody has a stake in coming out well,” he said.
On the issue of India using Afghanistan to destabilise Pakistan, he said the complaints needed to be addressed. Although he said he did not have enough information to confirm or deny the allegations. “If perceptions drive people to mistrust, then there is a need to work on them,” the General said.
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Phillip Joseph Bianco I did send the Italian Embassy my request for Political Asylum due to abuse...
Vatican City Newspapers
Unregistered at Feb 7th 2012