WASHINGTON: Calling for a global response against Islamic State (IS), DG ISPR Lt General Asim Bajwa said on Friday Pakistan had “zero tolerance” for the emerging militant group.

“Not even a shadow of Daish will be allowed in Pakistan,” the DG ISPR said, adding the Pakistani society had rejected the IS, and there was no acceptance of the terror group in the country.

Briefing reporters about army chief General Raheel Sharif’s visit to Washington, Bajwa said the COAS held discussions with US’ top civilian and military leaders on issues ranging from defense, military cooperation, regional security, as well as the long-running Kashmir dispute with India.

The DG ISPR said the entire world had recognised Daish as a threat, which centered in the Middle East and also had elements in Afghanistan.

Daish tried to raise its voice in Pakistan at a time when a crackdown against terrorists was already underway, and space for militants was shrinking, he added.

“People were fed up with terrorism and there was no acceptance for it in the society. They will be defeated in the coming days,” he said.

Regarding General Raheel’s visit, Bajwa said “all meetings were positive and discussions were held in a cordial atmosphere.”

“There is a clear regard and respect for Pakistan and for Pakistan’s armed forces, and progress will be visible in all areas of discussion,” he added.

Foreign secretary rules out presence of Islamic State in Pakistan

About Kashmir, the spokesperson said the US leadership was told that the long-term security and stability in the region required long-term solution, which was the resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Regarding Afghanistan, Bajwa said Pakistan, and the rest of the world supported the Afghan-owned and Afghan-led reconciliation process.

The DG ISPR said there was an identification of “detractors and spoilers” but all the serious stakeholders feel the urgency and seriousness of the matter.

US leaders paid tributes to Pakistan and the armed forces and there was recognition and acknowledgement of the opportunities created both inside and outside Pakistan because of the ongoing military offensive in Fata, operation Zarb-e-Azb, he added.

He said no time-frame could be given for its end but all objectives will be achieved at the earliest.

“The operation against terrorists will not end mid-way and will reach its logical conclusion,” ISPR spokesperson added.

APP