Nawaz, Kerry express concern over violence in IoK

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to discuss our strong, long-term bilateral partnership and to build upon the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, said John Kirby, a spokesman for US State Department.

"The US secretary commended the PM Sharif for restoring macroeconomic stability to Pakistan over the last three years and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s cooperation on climate change priorities," he said.

While commending recent efforts by Pakistani security forces to counter extremist violence, Secretary Kerry reiterated the need for Pakistan to prevent all terrorists from using its territory as safe havens, said the spokesman. They also spoke about regional issues, including recent developments with regard to Afghanistan.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Secretary Kerry expressed strong concern over recent incidents of violence in Indian-occupied Kashmir (IoK) and stressed the need for all sides to reduce tensions, said Kirby.

"Secretary Kerry stressed the need for restraint in nuclear weapons programs," he added.

"He also praised Pakistan for hosting Afghan refugees for over 40 years and highlighted the importance of continued respect for humanitarian principles."