This Article is From Jun 13, 2019

Trump Took Tough Stand Against Pak's Support For Terrorism: Mike Pompeo

Focusing on India-US ties under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mike Pompeo asserted that New Delhi and Washington have a unique opportunity to take advantage of its "special partnership"

Trump Took Tough Stand Against Pak's Support For Terrorism: Mike Pompeo

Last year, Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid which was given to Pakistan

Washington:

US President Donald Trump's administration has taken a tough stand against Pakistan for its "unacceptable support" for terrorism in the region, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

"Under President Trump, we have taken our defence cooperation to new heights solidifying our common vision in the Indo-Pacific and has taken a far tougher stand on Pakistan's unacceptable support for terrorism," said Mike Pompeo during the India Ideas Summit in Washington on Wednesday.

The remarks come days after Washington had announced that it has withdrawn its tax exemption programme for Pakistani diplomats.

The US has already barred Pakistani diplomats working in Washington from travelling outside a 25-kilometre radius around the city without approval.

Last year, Donald Trump suspended $1.3 billion annual security aid which was given to Pakistan, condemning it over its inaction on the terrorism front.

Focusing on India-US ties under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Pompeo asserted that New Delhi and Washington have a unique opportunity to take advantage of its "special partnership".

"When Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the United States in 2017, President Trump and Modi shared a few hugs and goodwill. PM Modi said Indian interest lies in a strong, prosperous and successful America. In similar ways India's development and its growing role at the international level are in the United States of America's interest as well," he added.

Mike Pompeo's visit to India, which is scheduled for the end of the month, will take place as the two countries get ready for a meeting between PM Modi and President Trump during the G-20 Summit on June 28 and 29 in Osaka, Japan.

Mr Pompeo also said that the US is open for a dialogue to resolve trade differences with India.

"It's a partnership of equals is how we see it. In my upcoming visit, we will probably discuss the GSP decision," Mr Pompeo said.

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