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Condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, US President Barack Obama and Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today said that no country's territory should be used to destabilise its neighbours.
During their maiden meeting at the White House, the two leaders discussed a host of issues, in which violent extremism and terrorism figured prominently.
"The two leaders emphasised that no country's territory should be used to destabilise its neighbours. Further, the leaders noted that extremism and terrorism represent a common challenge for humanity and that the solution lies in collaboration and joint efforts by the international community," a joint statement issued after the meeting, said.
Obama, however, made no commitment to Sharif's wish of ending drone strikes in Pakistan, that figured in the context of overall security and war against terrorism in the region.
"We talked about security and the concerns that both of us have about senseless violence, terrorism and extremism. And we agreed that we need to continue to find constructive ways to partner together; ways that respect Pakistan's sovereignty, that respect the concerns of both countries," Obama said in his brief remarks to the press.
Optimistic that the two countries can continue to make important strides in moving forward, Obama said he knows that Sharif "is very much committed to trying to reduce these incidents of terrorism inside of Pakistan's borders, and the degree to which these activities may be exported to other countries".
In his remarks Sharif said terrorism constitutes a common threat to both India and Pakistan.
"Obama thanked Sharif for Pakistan's efforts to help defeat al-Qaeda, and both leaders expressed their deep appreciation for the sacrifices of military personnel and civilians in the fight against terrorism and extremism," the statement said.
