RAWALPINDI: A five-member US Congress-ional delegation, led by Senator Joe Donnelly, called on Defence Secretary retired Lt Gen Asif Yasin Malik here on Wednesday.

The meeting, also attended by US Ambassador Richard Olson, discussed important issues relating to bilateral ties, said a press release.

The US team commended Pakistan’s efforts, role and support in the war against terrorism.

Senator Donnelly also paid tribute to the spirit of sacrifice of the armed forces.

The meeting focused on matters relating to regional security. Both sides emphasised on improving security environment and overcoming security challenges along the Pak-Afghan border.

Mr Donnelly observed that ties between the two countries had improved after the Salala incident. “The improvement in the relations between the two countries could be seen by some visible increase in cooperation and restoration of ground lines,” he said.

Gen Malik stressed the importance of smooth transition in Afghanistan, saying there should be a synergy of joint efforts to support reconciliation, capacity building and necessary assistant towards successful transition of power and security responsibilities, leading up to drawdown of international forces.—APP