LARKANA, Jan 31: Cameron Munter, the US ambassador to Pakistan, has termed the Nov 26 Nato air strike on Salala check-post a ‘terrible tragedy’ and said what happened there should not have happened.

Talking to reporters at Mohenjodaro during a visit to the archaeological site along with a team of US diplomats on Tuesday, he said: “It was an ‘accident’ in which 24 (Pakistani) soldiers and officers died.

“We express sorrow and regret the tragedy like every one in your country,” he said, adding that the United States wanted to ensure such incidents did not recur.

Washington wanted to hold talks with Islamabad and hoped that talks would begin soon after the parliament (in Pakistan) concluded the ongoing review of bilateral relations, Mr Munter said.

In reply to a question, he said it was an honour for him to be at Mohenjodaro. “I am here to learn more about your culture.”

The ambassador said the US would cooperate with Pakistan in preserving archaeological sites. “We want to help you preserve the site through funds at my disposal and USAID projects.”

Mr Munter recalled US assistance during devastating floods of 2010 and said “we are committed to continuing donations and cooperation with Pakistan”.

In reply to another question about the salinity threat to Mohenjodaro, he said he would take up the matter with experts in an attempt to find out a solution.

Mr Munter and others went around the ruins and also visited the museum.

Our Sukkur correspondent adds: Mr Munter visited the Sadhu Bela temple, situated on an island of River Indus.

Talking to journalists, he said the US wanted to strengthen relations with Pakistan.