Washington, Mar. 19: US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has asked Pakistan to curb the increasing activities of the Taliban in Balochistan.

Gates said that Washington has pledged to assist Pakistan in dismantling the terror infrastructure in the region.

“I think we all have a concern about the Quetta Shura, and the activities of the Taliban in that area, but I think this is principally a problem and a challenge for the Pakistanis to take on and as we have indicated, we are prepared to do anything we can to help them to that,” The Nation quoted Gates, as saying.

Talking to media persons here, Gates denied to answer queries on whether US would expand its drone attacks to Balochistan, but pointed that all options were open in this regard.

He said that the new policy for Afghanistan is being chalked out and would take some time before the final lay out is ready.

“It is a difficult problem, and trying to come up with new approaches and new initiatives that enhance our prospects for success. It’s hard work frankly,” Gates added. (ANI)