Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar downplays US Secretary of State John Kerry's 'praise' for Pakistan

Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday avoided commenting on United States Secretary of State John Kerry praising Pakistan for its action against terrorist organisations, saying terrorism in all forms is bad.

"We are trying to ensure that terrorism does not grow or penetrate into India. I do not get into a discussion on 'good' and 'bad' terrorism. All terrorism is bad," Parrikar told the media here.

Earlier in the day, Kerry praised the Pakistani Government for acting against terror groups like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). He also signed off a certification that makes Islamabad eligible for an aid package, reportedly in the region of USD 500 million.

Kerry's statement comes ahead of his visit to India, where he is scheduled to attend the Vibrant Gujarat summit. Kerry will also visit Pakistan later this month to hold the strategic dialogue in Islamabad.