United States Central Command (CENTCOM) head General James Mattis has urged greater trust and communications with the Pakistan's military amid escalating tensions over the November 26 airstrike that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers.
Mattis also called for "full disclosure of all border area facilities and installations" on both sides of the border, with updates using a shared database and map and encouraged organising coordination visits.
Mattis also called for "full disclosure of all border area facilities and installations" on both sides of the border, with updates using a shared database and map and encouraged organising coordination visits.
"The strongest take-away from this incident is the fundamental fact that we must improve border coordination and this requires a foundational level of trust on both sides of the border," The Daily Times quoted Mattis, as saying.
His statement came after his command released the findings of its own probe into the November 26 raid in Mohmand Agency.
Pakistan had earlier rejected an earlier US inquiry after the Americans insisted their troops responded only after coming under heavy machine-gun and mortar fire.
Mattis also directed NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) commander General John Allen to undertake several corrective measures to enhance ties with Pakistan, including fostering "improved, mutual trust" between forces.
He added that troops should also "clarify authorities, responsibilities, and standard operating procedures", conduct formal drills to improve coordination and thereby reduce chances of conflict. (ANI)
