Pak to take on Haqqani network after South Waziristan offensive: Mullen

Lahore, Dec. 18 (ANI): US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Admiral Michael Mullen has said that the Pakistan Army would take on the Afghan Al-Qaeda commander Sirajuddin Haqqani's network once it finishes its offensive in South Waziristan.

In an interview with a private television channel, Mullen said that Pakistan military's offensive in South Waziristan, the Taliban's stronghold, was in the final stages.

Responding to a question, he said President Obama is concerned about the growing differences between Washington and Islamabad, and has directed his administration to work to build mutual trust between both the countries.

Mullen, who visited Pakistan earlier this week, said he had discussed Pakistan's concerns over its national sovereignty with the country's military and civilian leadership during his tour.

The top US official said he had asked Army chief General Ashfaq Kayani to fight Al Qaeda, which was hiding in the lawless tribal areas, along the Afghan border. (ANI)