Pakistan exerts `greatest influence` on Taliban, says Afghan-Pak envoy

Islamabad: The US special envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan has said Pakistan wielded a significant influence over the Taliban.

The comments from James Dobbins came while acknowledging the `supportive role` of Pakistan. According to the Express Tribune, speaking at the US Embassy after talks with the Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the Army Chief Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, Dobbins said Pakistan had expressed its commitment to continue its support and to use its influence in the Afghan peace process. He said that he did not think anybody controlled the Taliban, but Pakistan had the greatest influence. Dobbins though clarified he believes Pakistan does not have a controlling influence on theTaliban, but does enjoy more influence than others. He also calmed Pakistan for its apprehensions it will be abandoned following the withdrawal of US and NATO forces from Afghanistan, the report added. ANI