The fact that Pakistani soil had been used by "these non-state actors" to carry out the Mumbai attacks in which Americans also died was a matter of "deep concern" to the United States,
WASHINGTON: The fact that Pakistani soil had been used by "these non-state actors" to carry out the Mumbai attacks in which Americans also died was a matter of "deep concern" to the United States, said Rice.
"Frankly, the US has better relations with India and Pakistan than in 2001-02. But it is obviously a dangerous situation, and Pakistan needs to act, and act forcefully" she said in an interview with CNBC.
Although there is "no bellicose talk" from either India or Pakistan in the aftermath of the terror attacks in Mumbai, the situation is "obviously dangerous and Islamabad needs to act forcefully," Rice said.
"Fortunately, we are in a slightly better situation than we were in 2001-02 - when the two states were on the verge of war (following the attack on Indian Parliament) - because India and Pakistan have done a lot of work to improve their relations," she said.
However, Rice said, "this was a time (for Pakistan) to act" against terrorists.
Rice said the purpose of her visit to India after the November 26 terror attacks was to send a "very strong" message of solidarity and support to the Indian people, their government and particularly to the people of Mumbai because this was a terrible attack, a heinous crime.
"And I think the Indians rightly were concerned to make sure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and that follow-on attacks are prevented," she said.
About her Pakistan visit, Rice said "I went on to Pakistan to emphasise with the civilian government, the government that I think wants to do the right things concerning terrorism."
"And so that was the purpose of the trip, and so far, at least some steps seem to be taken that may lead to these two goals, bringing the perpetrators to justice and getting India and Pakistan to cooperate to make certain that future attacks don't take place," Rice said.
When the US diplomat was asked what her talks with India regarding an appropriate response to terrorism were, she said "I talked about a response that would actually be commensurate with the goals. The goals are to bring the perpetrators to justice and to prevent a follow-on attack. Anything that would make the situation worse or might introduce unintended consequences is not going to be good for the stability of the region, and really it isn't going to address what needs to be done. And that was also my message to India".
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