The United States has described Pakistan as an important and reliable partner in the global fight against terrorism, recognizing Islamabad’s role in regional security and counterterrorism operations.
The remarks were made by Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), during a briefing to a US Senate committee in Washington.
Speaking before lawmakers, Admiral Cooper said Afghanistan continues to remain a major focus of Washington’s security attention due to ongoing terrorist activities and regional security threats.
He stated that Afghanistan remains at the top of the United States’ security monitoring list, while Central Asian partner countries are also closely watching terrorism-related risks emerging from the region.
According to the CENTCOM chief, Pakistan has played a significant role in counterterrorism operations and remains a trusted partner of the United States in efforts against extremist groups.
“Pakistan is a reliable partner in counterterrorism,” Admiral Cooper said.
He particularly highlighted Pakistan’s importance in operations against Daesh-Khorasan (ISIS-K), describing the country as a key player in efforts to combat the militant organization in the region.
The US military official also noted that defense cooperation and military coordination between Pakistan and the United States have produced concrete results against terrorist networks.
“These successes are a direct reflection of the friendship and shared commitment between Pakistan and the United States,” he added.
The statement represents another indication of continuing security cooperation between Washington and Islamabad despite fluctuations in bilateral relations over recent years.
Pakistan and the United States have long collaborated on counterterrorism initiatives, especially after the September 11 attacks and during the war in Afghanistan.
Although relations between the two countries have experienced periods of tension over strategic and political issues, security cooperation has often remained an important area of engagement.
Analysts believe the latest remarks by the CENTCOM chief highlight Pakistan’s continued strategic importance in regional stability, particularly following the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Security experts note that militant groups operating in and around Afghanistan continue to pose threats not only to neighboring countries but also to broader international security interests.
The Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), specifically mentioned by Admiral Cooper, has been responsible for several deadly attacks in Afghanistan and has emerged as a growing concern for regional governments and global security agencies.
Pakistan has repeatedly stated that it has sacrificed thousands of lives and suffered major economic losses during its fight against terrorism over the past two decades.
Islamabad has also emphasized the need for international cooperation to prevent extremist organizations from regrouping in the region.
The US acknowledgment of Pakistan’s role may be viewed as a positive development in bilateral relations, especially in the context of security and military cooperation.
Political observers believe that continued coordination between Pakistan and the United States could play a role in addressing emerging regional threats and maintaining stability in South and Central Asia.
The briefing also underscored ongoing international concern over Afghanistan’s security situation and the risk of militant organizations using the region as a base for future operations.
As regional dynamics continue to evolve, counterterrorism cooperation between countries in the region and global powers is expected to remain a major component of international security policy.
