Extremist sanctuaries unacceptable

“The fight against terrorism is not in Afghanistan and we will not be secure and safe ... (unless we) address the question of sanctuaries in Pakistan, the terrorist training camps there and the motivation that they are given there.”

Scheffer said Pakistan had to be part of the solution to the problem.

“Our forces in Afghanistan are also the victims of the surge and uptick in violent incidents we have seen recently. But let us practise a regional approach and let us involve all the regional actors here,” he said.

“Only saying Pakistan is part of the problem or Pakistan is the problem might clear your conscience, but will not help in solving the problem,” Scheffer said, likely referring to Kabul’s cross-border fingerpointing.

“But my preferred option is Pakistan is part of the solution,” he said.

There are fears in Pakistan that international forces will launch “hot pursuit” raids into its tribal belt as attacks soar in Afghanistan.

Scheffer said ISAF’s UN mandate barred it from entering Pakistan.

“It is crystal clear that if Nato forces are shot at from the other side of the border, there is always the right of self-defence.

“But you will not, I repeat not, see Nato forces crossing into Pakistani territory and you will not see the alliance seeking another UN mandate.”