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US defence department keen on continuing proactive role in South Asia

The American defence department favours an active role for the United States in easing tensions between India and Pakistan.

The department's annual report, which Defence Secretary William Cohen has sent to President Bill Clinton, wants India and Pakistan to support international efforts to control the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

"While the United States cannot impose solutions on the region's dispute, its unique military and political position demand that it play an active role in promoting regional stability and advancing the cause of peace," the report says.

It says stability in South Asia depends on improved relations between India and Pakistan and a commitment from both countries to support international efforts to control proliferation of ballistic missiles and nuclear, biological and chemical weapons.

Until South Asia's non-proliferation issues are satisfactorily resolved, the US military's role in the region will focus on supporting multinational efforts to stabilise the region and safeguard international non-proliferation norms.

"The United States will also encourage participation by regional parties, where appropriate, in peace operations to help resolve international conflicts and promote potential regional co-operation," it adds.

UNI

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