PHOTO: PID

In Jt statement issued today US calls for uninterrupted and resilient dialogue between Pakistan and India — Maleeha Lodhi (@LodhiMaleeha) October 22, 2015

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and US President Barack Obama renewed on Thursday their resolve to promote peace and stability throughout the region and to counter all forms of extremism and terrorism.During the meeting at the White House, the two leaders agreed the bilateral security relationship between Pakistan and the US will continue to be integral to regional stability, according to a joint statement.They also agreed that stability of South Asia depends on cooperation among all neighbours to suppress all extremist and militant groups operating in the region.Obama and Nawaz also expressed their commitment to advance an Afghan­-led peace and reconciliation process between the Afghan government and Afghan Taliban, urging the latter to enter into direct talks with Kabul, aimed at working towards a sustainable peace settlement.The premier reaffirmed Pakistan’s territory would not be used against any other country.Meanwhile, both the leaders expressed concern over the violence along the Line of Control, and emphasised the importance of dialogue process between the two neighbours to resolve all outstanding disputes, including Kashmir, through peaceful means.The premier highlighted Pakistan’s resolve to take effective action against United Nations-designated terrorist individuals and entities, as per its international commitments and obligations.Acknowledging Pakistan’s role as a key counter-terrorism partner, Obama said he recognised the sacrifices Pakistani civilians, military and law enforcement personnel had made over the years as they confront terrorism and militant groups.Building on this progress, the premier and US president expressed their desire to expand the bilateral relationship in areas outside the traditional security realm in recognition of the multifaceted issues facing both countries.These include trade and investment, education, science and technology, clean, efficient and affordable energy, efforts to counter climate change; economic growth; regional integration, rule of law, people-to-people and cultural ties, and support for democratic principles.