Washington, Oct 12 : US Secretary for Defense Leon Panetta has said that the situation in Pakistan is likely to remain volatile.

Addressing an audience at an event titled ‘Defense Priorities: Today and Tomorrow’, organised by the Woodrow Wilson Centre for International Scholars, Panetta also said that diplomatic efforts needed to continue to work with Pakistan.

He acknowledged that the relationship with Pakistan was difficult, while the latter had cooperated in efforts against al Qaeda and continued to work with the United States.

“We have great differences, especially with regards to relationships they maintain with some militant groups,” The Express Tribune quoted Panetta, as saying.

In response to a question, Panetta said: “We cannot resolve issues of Afghanistan without solving issues of Pakistan,” adding that a stable and secure Pakistan was vital for a secure Afghanistan.

He also said that there was a need for Pakistan and India to work on resolving their differences.

Speaking on Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, Panetta said that Pakistan was also increasing its nuclear assets, and highlighted how Iran and North Korea remained as threats due to their nuclear programs. (ANI)