US Defense Secretary Robert Gates to discuss Afghanistan war strategy with Pakistan leaders

Gates to discuss Afghanistan war with Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD — U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says his talks Thursday with Pakistan’s military and civilian leaders are intended to explain the U.S. war strategy in neighboring Afghanistan.

Gates says he will reassure Pakistan that the United States is “in this for the long haul.”

The Pentagon chief says he won’t directly press Pakistan to expand its military campaign against militant forces. Instead he will ask his hosts what their plans are.

The U.S. wants Pakistan to broaden its offensive to border areas where members of the Afghan Taliban have been seeking refuge.