Pompeo, COAS agree local strategy needed to end Afghan conflict

The Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa reiterated that a local strategy is needed for an effective solution to the Afghan conflict.

In a meeting with US Secretary Of State Mike Pompeo, the army chief discussed ways to improve progress of the Afghan peace process and bilateral relationship.

The two held a detailed discussion on Afghanistan and the peace process.

“Pakistan attaches great importance to restoring a robust bilateral relationship based on mutual respect, trust & shared values,” the COAS was quoted as saying by the military’s media wing.

https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1153871282934603776

The army chief also met with Senator Lindsay Graham and General (retd) Jack Keane who lauded Pakistan’s role in improving security dynamics in the region.

COAS met Senator Lindsay Graham & Gen Jack Keane, Retd. Regional security situation, Afg peace process & Pak-US bilateral relationship discussed. Senator Graham recollecting his visit to Pakistan appreciated Pakistan’s role in improving security dynamics in the region.(1of2).

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) July 24, 2019

COAS apprised them of the improved security situation in Pakistan and the resulting opportunities for foreign businesses to invest in the country.

COAS apprised them of the improved security situation in Pakistan and the resulting opportunities for foreign businesses to invest in Pakistan. “Bilateral relationship holds potential for both countries and would also assist in regional stability”, COAS.(2of2). pic.twitter.com/26BnAWqbrD

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) July 24, 2019

Regional security situation, Afghan peace process and Pak-US bilateral relationship were also discussed.

“Bilateral relationship holds potential for both countries and would also assist in regional stability,” the army chief said.

The chief of army staff is accompanying Prime Minister Imran Khan on his maiden visit to the US.

During his meeting with Pompeo, Prime Minister Imran Khan said that the Pakistan-US partnership remained vital to the promotion of the mutual interests of the two countries as well as broader regional peace, stability and prosperity.

He emphasized over the need to further enhance and diversify the bilateral content of the relationship in a wide range of areas.

Expressing satisfaction at his wide-ranging talks with President Trump at the White House, the prime minister said that convergence on promoting a political solution in Afghanistan has created the opportunity for regional peace and stability. He added that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was vital for Pakistan.

Imran Khan emphasized the importance of close collaboration between Pakistan and U. to advance that objective.