McCain’s words

Reportedly, Senator John McCain, chairman of the US Senate Committee on Armed Services has given some very good advice to the US, Pakistan and Afghanistan. He has urged the three countries to overcome their differences and fight their common foe: terrorists. He has also said that “without Pakistan’s cooperation the US mission in Afghanistan would become increasingly more difficult”.

Senator McCain visited Pakistan in the first week of July and also visited the Pak-Afghan border and North Waziristan. He acknowledged the tremendous gains and sacrifices made by Pakistani troops in the fight against the TTP. McCain has also told the US that it must make an enduring commitment to Pakistan’s stability and economic progress. Pakistan should also take on all groups of militants with the same zeal and gusto that it took on the TTP. Taking this step is important, as these groups not only threaten American and Afghan security, but are detrimental for the long-term interest of Pakistan as well.

Akbar Jan Marwat

Islamabad