Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday thanked US President Donald Trump for recognising Pakistan’s role in counterterrorism efforts, reaffirming the country’s commitment to combating militancy in the region.

Taking to his official account on X (formerly Twitter), the prime minister said:

"We thank US President Donald Trump @POTUS for acknowledging and appreciating Pakistan's role and support in counterterrorism efforts in Afghanistan."

He reiterated Pakistan’s longstanding role in the fight against terrorism, stating that the country has consistently worked to deny safe havens to militant groups.

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"As is well-known, Pakistan has always played a critical role in counterterrorism efforts aimed at denying safe havens to terrorists and militant groups the space to operate against any other country," he said.

Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, noting that over 80,000 soldiers and civilians had laid down their lives in the struggle.

"We remain steadfast in our resolve and unwavering commitment to combating terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations. In this effort, Pakistan has rendered great sacrifices, including the lives of over 80,000 of our brave soldiers and citizens. However, the resolve of our leadership and our people remains unflinching, to eradicate the menace of terrorism from our country," he added.

The prime minister also stressed Pakistan’s continued cooperation with Washington in ensuring regional stability.

"We will continue to partner closely with the United States in securing regional peace and stability," he said.

Trump acknowledges Pakistan’s role

The statement came after President Trump, in his address to a joint session of Congress, thanked Pakistan for assisting in the apprehension of a key terrorist responsible for the 2021 Kabul airport bombing.

"I want to thank, especially, the Pakistani government for helping arrest this monster," Trump said, calling it a "very momentous day" for the families of those killed in the attack.

The bombing at Abbey Gate in August 2021 had resulted in the deaths of 13 US service members and numerous Afghan civilians. Trump announced that the US was extraditing the "top terrorist" responsible for the attack, stating that he would soon face justice in the United States.

His remarks marked a rare moment of public recognition of Pakistan’s role in counterterrorism, following years of strained relations between Washington and Islamabad.