US, Pak mistrust hampering peace process in South Asia: Mullen

Washington, Feb.15 (ANI): The Chairman US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen has said both Pakistan and the United States don't trust each other, and this is preventing the establishment of peace in the region.

In an interview given to a US daily, Admiral Mullen said the trust deficit is preventing both countries from chalking out a co-ordinate and comprehensive strategy against terrorism.

Stressing on the need for fresh policies to tackle terrorism, Admiral Mullen said the strategies must be inclusive of the threat that Pakistan and Afghanistan both face.

Commenting on the 'War on Terror' in Afghanistan, The Nation quoted Mullen as saying that it was necessary for Washington to find a way to protect the Afghan people and gain their trust.

"Lose the people's trust, and we lose the war," he said, adding, "The strategy reviews for Afghanistan recognize this and seek military, economic, political, diplomatic and informational approaches to regaining that trust."

NATO forces, he said would continue their attempts to root out terror outfits from the region, but it was very necessary to establish trust among the Afghani people for a peaceful tomorrow, the top US commander said.

"We can send more troops. We can kill or capture all the Taliban and Al-Qaeda leaders we can find - and we should. We can clear out havens and shut down the narcotics trade. But until we prove capable, with the help of our allies and Afghan partners, of safeguarding the population, we will never know a peaceful, prosperous Afghanistan," Admiral Mullen said.

He also urged the Obama administration to review its strategies in Afghanistan.

"The insurgency won't ever end if US forces accidentally kill civilians in the country or give people reasons to think badly of the United States," Admiral Mullen concluded. (ANI)