US denounces terrorist attack in Pakistan

WASHINGTON: United States (US) Department of State Deputy Spokesperson, Vedant Patel, condemned the recent acts of terrorism in Pakistan.

During a press briefing on Thursday, the deputy spokesperson denounced terrorism while specifically referencing the attack on a railway station on November 9.

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“We strongly denounce these violent incidents”, Patel stated. He mentioned that the US has classified the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) as a global terrorist organisation.

He extended condolences to the victims and their families affected by the senseless violence.

Patel said that combating such threats aligned with the interests of both, the United States and Pakistan. “Dealing with these challenges is a shared responsibility. We stand firmly with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism”.

When asked about the Indian cricket team’s absence from the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan, the deputy spokesperson, born in the Indian state of Gujarat himself, conceded the complex nature of Pakistan-India relations.

“Both nations have the opportunity to discuss their relationship”, he diplomatically answered.   

The deputy spokesperson talked about sports diplomacy and its role in building better foreign relations.

Read more: ICC Champions Trophy: India-Pakistan deadlock persists

“Sports serve as a powerful unifying force. It is essential for our public affairs and public diplomacy”.

Patel concluded by talking about the ability of sports to connect communities and people.