In this December 28, 2010 file photo, smoke blows from a US vehicle after it hit an explosion during a patrol in Chowkay district in Kunar province, eastern Afghanistan. — Photo by AP

ISLAMABAD: US Deputy Secretary of State for South Asia Robert Blake said that there was a need to enhance ties with Pakistan and help the people of Pakistan who were facing political, economic and security problems.

Talking to VOA on Monday, he said that it was important for all of us to move forward and work together.

“We need to help the people and the government of Pakistan in resolving their political, economic and security problems and in fact it is the time to focus on these issues,” he said.

He said that Pakistan's role in the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan was important and the United States wanted Pakistan on its side in the future strategy as it was a valuable ally.

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