The US State Department has announced a new initiative to combat terrorism and violent extremism, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation. The initiative, spearheaded by the State Department’s Bureau of Counterterrorism, aims to strengthen partnerships with countries around the world to address these global threats. The initiative’s focus areas include:
Miller added: “The under secretary expressed his gratitude for Pakistan’s continued cooperation in assisting Afghans in resettlement pathways to the United States, and we will continue to work closely with the Government of Pakistan on all these issues.” The American official’s visit comes days after Washington announced taking action against five entities and one individual involved in the proliferation of ballistic missiles and controlled missile equipment and technology to Pakistan. Miller, in a statement last week, said that the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry had worked with Pakistan to procure equipment for testing rocket motors for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel systems and potentially for larger systems.
** US Sanctions on Chinese Companies: A Pattern of Retaliation? **2.
The US, in its statement, cited the companies as “providing critical equipment” to Pakistan. This action follows a pattern of US actions against China in recent years, including sanctions against Chinese companies for alleged violations of sanctions against North Korea and Iran.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar (left) meets the Acting Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs John Bass alongside US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome on September 17, 2024. — X/@ForeignOfficePk Additionally, Bass held delegation-level talks with Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch. “The two sides held wide ranging discussions on the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including progress on the existing dialogue mechanisms on trade, energy, security, health, climate change and counter-terrorism,” read the statement. It added that the foreign secretary noted the importance attached by Pakistan to its relations with the US. “She underlined the need to upgrade the bilateral mechanisms, especially in the economic and defence fields, and working towards building a broad based and meaningful bilateral relationship.”
* Under Secretary Bass of the U.S. Department of State visited the United Kingdom. * Under Secretary Bass met with the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom.