The shared tension between the two allies touched new heights on Tuesday when United States Secretary of State Rex Tillerson hinted that Pakistan may lose control of its territory if it does not address the growing “size and influence” of militant organisations in the country. Speaking at the Atlantic Council, Tillerson stressed that the US was more ‘concerned’ about stability in Pakistan. He said he had warned the leadership of Pakistan that it may become a target. The foreign office shot down Tillerson’s views on Thursday, stating that Islamabad did “not agree with the comments and perception” of the US secretary of state. Tillerson’s warning comes days after US Defence Secretary James Mattis’s visit to Pakistan made in a bid to renew efforts and find “common grounds” in promoting peace in the region.

Source: The Express Tribune December 15, 2017 08:25 UTC