Washington (August 30, 2018): US Military Chief will accompany Foreign Minister, Mike Pompeo on his visit to Islamabad. US Defense Secretary, James Mattis said that the need to fight terrorists would be the primary part of their discussions.
According to details, US Foreign Minister Mike Pompeo and Military Chief, General Dunford are expected to meet their counterpart in first week of September. 
US Defense Secretary, during a news briefing at Pentagon, said that US had permanent interests in South Asia and wanted to maintain a presence there to have influence in the region. He further added that US delegation and Pakistani officials will be deciding future ties in the meeting.
US Military Chief said that US wants to maintain diplomatic and security presence in South Asia.
US Foreign Minister Mike Pompeo and Military Chief, General Dunford are also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Earlier on August 23, United States (US) Secretary of State Michael Pompeo telephoned Prime Minister Imran Khan and congratulated him on running a successful election campaign and forming the government.
Pompeo wished PM Khan well for “implementation of his commitment for the welfare of the people of Pakistan”, read a statement.
PM Khan emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations on the basis of mutual trust and benefit. He also underscored the importance of peace and stability in the region.
With reference to Afghanistan, both the leaders agreed that peace was a priority for their countries.
Earlier, the US State Department in a released a statement which stated: “Secretary Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and wished him success.
Secretary Pompeo expressed his willingness to work with the new government towards a productive bilateral relationship. Secretary Pompeo raised the importance of Pakistan taking decisive action against all terrorists operating in Pakistan and its vital role in promoting the Afghan peace process.”
It is pertinent to mention that Pompeo is likely to visit Islamabad in the first week of September for consultations with PM Imran Khan and his team on issues of mutual interests.
Pompeo, who is expected in Islamabad on Sept 5, will likely be the first foreign dignitary to meet the newly elected prime minister.
During his talks with Pakistani officials, Secretary Pompeo is expected to focus on two major issues: efforts to revive once close ties between the two states and Pakistan’s support for a US-led move to jump-starting the Afghan peace process.
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