"While this strike was taken pursuant to US rules of engagement and counter-terrorism interests, the specific relevance it has to Pakistan and Afghanistan's security underscores the common security interests shared by the United States, Afghanistan, and Pakistan on matters of terrorism," the statement noted.
Khalifa orchestrated multiple terrorist operations in Pakistan, including the January 2016 attack on Bacha Khan University and the December 2014 Peshawar school attack that resulted in the deaths of more than 130 children, the release noted.
"Only through continued cooperation will we collectively succeed in eliminating terrorist safe havens in the region," the release stated.
The United States also recognizes the importance of Pakistan's recent directive to all commanders, intelligence and law enforcement agencies to take specific measures against those who would attack Afghanistan, the release added.
