Action against terrorist ‘safe havens’ in Pakistan’s interest: US defence chief Mattis

US Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis said on Saturday that indiscriminate action by Pakistan against terrorist safe havens inside the country are in the regional and Pakistan’s interest, US media reported.

The statement comes ahead of his scheduled visit to Pakistan on Monday.

The US Defense Secretary also said that Washington wants progress in Pakistan-US relations.

US Secretary of Defense James Mattis on Friday began his crucial five-day tour of the Middle East and Pakistan. He will also visit Egypt, Jordan and Kuwait during his tour.

"In Afghanistan, we have heard from Pakistan leaders that they do not support terrorism. So I expect to see that sort of action reflected in their policies," Mattis said during his visit to Egypt.

The US Secretary of Defense will meet with Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Bajwa and hold discussions regional security, peace, Afghan conflict and other bilateral issues.

His final stop will be in Kuwait Tuesday, where he will meet with Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah.

On November 24, Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif had confirmed that US Defence Secretary James Mattis would conduct a one-day visit to the country.