Obama-Sharif reiterate commitment to combat terrorism

WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama and Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have reiterated their commitment to combat terrorism and extremism whilst promoting peace and stability in the South-Asian region, the White House said.
In his telephonic conversation with Sharif, Obama discussed efforts by the United States and Pakistan to advance shared interests in a stable, secure and prosperous Pakistan and region, the White House said in a statement yesterday.
The two leaders reaffirmed the valued relationship between the two countries and the importance of the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue as a framework for guiding the bilateral relationship, the statement said.
The next round of strategic dialogue is likely to be held early next year.
"The two leaders reiterated their commitment to combat terrorism and extremism and to promote peace and stability in the region," the White House said adding, "The President welcomed Pakistan's improved relations with the new Afghan government."
Earlier, during the talk, Sharif also asked Obama to take up the Kashmir issue with the Indian leadership when he travels to India in January next year on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.