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MEA counters US general, says Pakistan's terror record 'very clear'
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday described the recent Pahalgam attack as yet another instance of cross-border terrorism, stating that Pakistan's track record on the issue is well known, news agency PTI reported.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made the remark at his weekly press briefing, in response to comments by US Army General Michael Kurilla, who had spoken about Washington maintaining ties with both India and Pakistan.
US general says Washington can balance ties with India and Pakistan
General Kurilla, Commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM), during a testimony before the US House Armed Services Committee, said that the US can have relationships with both nations and that it's not a binary choice. 'We should assess each relationship on its own merits and focus on the positives,' he said.
'Pakistan's record speaks for itself', says MEA in firm response
Commenting on this, Jaiswal said, 'Pakistan's record speaks for itself, it is very clear.'
India recalls 26/11 and Osama bin Laden to highlight terror links
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing the media, said the Pahalgam attack is merely the latest in a series of cross-border terror incidents, pointing once again to Pakistan's role in harbouring terrorism. He recalled that Tahawwur Rana, one of the accused in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, was recently extradited from the United States to India. 'None of us have forgotten that Pakistan gave refuge to Osama bin Laden,' he added. 'And it's telling that Dr Shakil Afridi, who helped locate Bin Laden, remains imprisoned by the Pakistani military.'
US highlights Pakistan's counter-terror efforts against ISIS-K
General Michael 'Erik' Kurilla surprised many during a recent Congressional hearing by commending Pakistan's efforts in countering the ISIS-Khorasan threat.
General Michael Kurilla noted that Pakistan is actively engaged in counter-terrorism efforts, stating, 'Since the beginning of 2024, they've faced over 1,000 terrorist attacks in their western regions, resulting in around 700 deaths among civilians and security personnel.'
Backing his statement, Reuters reported that Pakistan has ramped up operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan against the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and ISIS splinter groups. Intelligence-sharing with the United States, though limited, has reportedly resumed.
India silent on Asim Munir invite; MEA says ask Americans
Responding to queries about reports of Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir being invited to the US Army Day celebrations on June 14, 'On the matter of invitations, I would urge you to find out who exactly has been invited,' he told the reporters. 'Whether foreign leaders are included or not is a question best answered by the American side,' Jaiswal said.
When asked about India's relationship with Bangladesh, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the ties between the two nations are well established. 'I've said this several times, we seek a positive and constructive relationship with Bangladesh, rooted in the aspirations of both our peoples,' he noted.
India monitoring West Asia closely, assures diaspora of safety
On a separate question regarding the situation in West Asia, Jaiswal confirmed that India is closely monitoring developments in the region. 'Yes, we have a large diaspora there. Our embassies across West Asia are in constant touch with the Indian community, advising them on matters of safety and security,' he added.
(With agency inputs)
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