US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson `reiterated President Trump`s message that Pakistan must increase its efforts to eradicate militants and terrorists operating within the country,` according to a statement issued the US embassy.
Mr Tillerson`s visit was a 240 minutes stop-over, as he was headed for India on a two-day visit incorporating numerous high-profile meetings. His stop in Islamabad was the customary repetition transaction of the `do more` narrative.
This is becoming more of a political rhetoric devoid of substance because at the same time the US acknowledges Pakistan`s role as a strategic ally in the region and appreciates Islamabad`s efforts to curb terrorism.
Mr Tillerson must have been surprisedon being received by a mid-level diplomat at the airport. His meeting, too, should have been restricted to his counterpart, i.e.
Pakistan`s foreign minister, but our prime minister made himself available for a meeting which was unwarranted.
Pakistani authorities should have told Mr Tillerson bluntly that US and Nato forces had failed to maintain stability in the region, and Pakistan was suffering as a result. May Allah bless Pakistan with leadership that has the acumen for diplomacy.
