US expects transparent Pathankot attack probe by Pakistan

LAHORE (Web Desk) – Department of State Spokesperson John Kirby has said that United States (US) expects a transparent investigation into Pathankot attack by Pakistan.

In State Department’s weekly briefing, John Kirby said that US is committed to a better co-existence between Pakistan and India.

"We note and we re encouraged by the fact that the Pakistani government condemned the attack and said that they would investigate," he said.

Kirby further said that it is US interest that India and Pakistan strike a better equation keeping eradication of extremism their top priority. 

On January 2, at least seven gunmen had breached Indian airbase situated near Pakistan border and opened fire. The Indian authorities could not get the insurgents eliminated for at least four days. Seven Indian army troops had lost lives in the attack.

Prime Minister (PM) Nawaz Sharif had condemned usage of Pakistani soil used for attack on neighbouring country and vowed to catch operatives within 72 hours. However, Indian counterpart Narendra Modi had given Nawaz a week to probe the attack.

On the other hand, Foreign Secretary-level dialogue which is scheduled between Pakistan and India, starting from January 15 seemed to be jeopardy post the insurgency however, Nawaz called on his Indian counterpart and eliminated possible gap.

Today Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, who had visited Pakistan in December to attend fifth Heart of Asia Conference, met Home Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss the matter. However, offices of the two ministers have not released any statement until the filing of this report.

Indian media  reported Monday that Pakistan has handed over initial findings to India. The joint investigation team (JIT) formed by the Prime Minister included the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Intelligence Bureau.

The report forwarded by Pakistan states that the telephone numbers provided by the Indian authorities were not registered in Pakistan.