LeT, Haqqani network continue to pose threat: Kerry

Islamabad, Jan 13: US Secretary of State John Kerry today said terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Taliban and Haqqani network continue to pose a threat not just to Pakistan and its neighbours but also to America and the world.

"We all have a responsibility to ensure that these extremists are no longer able to secure a foothold in this country or elsewhere," Kerry said here at a joint press conference with Sartaj Aziz, Pakistan PM's adviser on Foreign Affairs. He said militant groups such as the Taliban, the Haqqani network and Lashkar-e-Taiba "continue to pose a threat not just to Pakistan and its neighbours but also to the United States and the world."

The Haqqani network is blamed for a bloody bombing of the Indian embassy in 2008 that left 58 people dead, a 2011 attack on the US embassy, and several big truck bombing attempts. US and Afghan officials have repeatedly said Pakistan's spy agency ISI covertly backed the Haqqanis to extend its influence in Afghanistan, a charge Islamabad deny.

"Make no mistake the task is a difficult one and it is not done," Kerry said. "The tragedy of December 16 is really a reminder of the serious risk of allowing extremists to find space, and be able to command that space and operate within it," Kerry said, referring to the Taliban attack on an army-run school in Peshawar that left 150 people dead, mostly students. Kerry advised India and Pakistan to re-engage in serious dialogue. "I encourage (both) parties to have a dialogue."

Responding to a question on flare up in tension between the two countries after cross border shelling, Kerry said "we hope that (talks) can take place." India called off Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan after Pakistan High Commissioner in New Delhi Abdul Basit held talks with Kashmiri separatists in August last year.

PTI