US wants a prosperous Pakistan contributing to regional stability: Palladino

WASHINGTON (92 News) – US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino has said that America wants to see a prosperous Pakistan contributing positively towards regional stability and security. During a weekly briefing on Wednesday, he said that it is top priority of the US to have strong ties and cooperation with Pakistan. Robert Palladino said that Pakistan’s role for peace and stability in the region is very important. “Pakistan can play an important role in bringing about a negotiated settlement in Afghanistan, and something that we’re thankful for,” he said. To a question about Tibet, Palladino said: “Our policy on Tibet respects China’s territorial integrity, and we consider Tibet to be a part of China, but at the same time, we have been clear we’re deeply concerned by the lack of meaningful autonomy for the Tibetan people, the deteriorating human rights situation in Tibetan areas, and severe restrictions on religious freedom and cultural rights there. So we will continue to urge China to cease restrictions on the human rights of Tibetans as well as their religious, cultural, and linguistic identity.”

Pompeo played a key role in de-escalating Pak-India tension: Palladino

US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino has said that Pakistan and India should focus on direct contacts. In a press briefing on Tuesday, he said that any military activity could deteriorate situation. “Defence Secretary Mike Pompeo played a key role in de-escalating tension between Pakistan and India. He is still in contact with the foreign ministers of both countries,” he said. US urges Pakistan, India to continue to take steps for de-escalation of tensions The US State Department deputy spokesperson urged Pakistan and India to continue to take steps for de-escalation of tension through direct communication. “Sometimes the US does public diplomacy. It is time for private diplomacy and private diplomacy is going on at this time,” he said. A few days ago, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) shot down two Indian jets, giving the first surprise to India.  According to the ISPR, the Indian jets had violated the Line of Control. The PAF gave a timely response and destroyed them. The Pak Army jawans arrested one of the pilots. The wreckage of one of the jets fell in the Pakistani territory, while the wreckage of another jet fell in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.