LONDON, Feb 2: Nato forces are getting ready to step up efforts to take control of the Afghan side of the country's border with Pakistan, the alliance's military chief said in an interview published in the Financial Times on Friday.

“Nato needs to work with Pakistan for a reduction, if not elimination, of the unlawful and illegal movement across the border,” General John Craddock, Nato Supreme Allied Commander Europe, was quoted as saying by the business daily.In an interview conducted on a flight back to Europe after a visit to Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gen Craddock was also asked if Nato was planning any military action to temper the flow of insurgents across the border.

“Isaf is developing plans for that very effect,” he responded, referring to the International Security Assistance Force, the Nato-led grouping made up of about 33,000 troops from 37 nations.

During his visit to Pakistan, Gen Craddock met military commanders in Islamabad, describing the discussions as “frank, candid and promising.”—AFP