WASHINGTON, July 13: A senior US official praised India and Pakistan on Tuesday for taking "encouraging efforts" to promote peace in the region.

"We have seen positive efforts and encouraging signals leading the region towards peace, democracy and the rule of law but more needs to be done," said Donald Camp, the acting assistant secretary of state for South Asia.

His cautious remarks contrasted sharply with the warmth and enthusiasm of a group of about three-dozen youths from India, Pakistan and Afghanistan he was addressing. They were brought to the State Department to share their experiences with diplomats and journalists after spending 21 days with each other in America.

"I realized it is not about winning or losing but working together. I also realized that regardless of their religion, Indians and Pakistanis can live together," said Ayaz Ahmad, a 16-year-old Pakistani student.