WASHINGTON DC: US Senate Armed Services Committee’s chairman Senator John McCain on Sunday admitted that Pakistan Army under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif has achieved great successes. He said the US values relations with Pakistan.

In a statement issued by his office, Senator McCain said that Gen Sharif also visited the Senate panel and explained how the Pakistani forces were combating terrorists.

The centre of the meeting was Afghanistan and ISIS but US-Pak cooperation against terrorism was also discussed in the meeting.

Senator McCain admitted that Pakistan Army achieved major successes against terrorists. He said several brave soldiers of the Pakistan Army have been martyred in the war against terrorists, adding that their sacrifices are praiseworthy.

He reiterated that the US values its relations with Pakistan in the tough times, adding that working together is in the best interest of the country.

“The meeting was productive and informative to all members of the committee. We value our relationship with Pakistan during these very challenging times,” he said.

“Members believe that the fight against the Taliban is far from over and the Taliban continues to play a key role in the region.” Senator McCain, a former Republican presidential candidate said, “I thanked Gen Sharif for his leadership and expressed my appreciation for the sacrifice of so many brave Pakistani soldiers in the fight against terrorism.”

“Going forward, I hope we will continue working closely together in the interest of both our countries,” he said.—INP