US says it values ties with Pakistan

WASHINGTON: The US on Tuesday underscored its continual partnership with Pakistan in various areas of mutual interest between the two countries.

“We have partnered with Pakistan for more than 40 years to support law enforcement, rule of law, counter narcotics efforts, and other areas in the security space,” the State Department’s principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said during a press briefing. He acknowledged that large-scale military assistance to Pakistan remains suspended and added, “We continue to value our bilateral relationship.”

He said that the department was aware of the reports of multiple attacks on Pakistani security forces and facilities earlier in November. The spokesperson also offered condolences. He clarified that there was no (military) equipment left behind by American forces during the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Patel said the US commitment to the people of Afghanistan was enduring. “The US continues to be the single largest humanitarian donor to the people of Afghanistan.”

Responding to another question, he said that in any country the US was not supportive of one particular party or government over the other. “In the context of any election, it continues to be paramount that elections are held in a free and fair manner and reflect the will of the people residing in that country,” he said.