‘Lasting solution for Afghan issues possible only through comprehensive dialogue’

Peace and stability in the region depends on peace in Afghanistan, says FM

ISLAMABAD:

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Thursday told his Afghan counterpart, Mohammad Haneef Atmar, that Pakistan has maintained from the outset that a lasting solution to Afghan issues was only possible through comprehensive dialogue between all stakeholders.

During a telephonic conversation with Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister, FM Qureshi congratulated Minister Atmar on successfully holding the second round of Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) dialogue in Kabul on August 31.

The foreign minister also appraised his Afghan counterpart on the details of a recent meeting with an Afghan Taliban delegation at the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad.

“Peace and stability in the region depend on peace in Afghanistan,” FM Qureshi said. “Early inter-Afghan dialogue is necessary to ensure the Afghan peace process.”

The FM further told his Afghan counterpart that Afghanistan’s leadership must take full advantage of this opportunity to intensify its efforts to hold inter-Afghan talks as soon as possible.

He added that Pakistan would continue its conciliatory efforts for peace and stability in the region including Afghanistan.

“Pakistan seeks peace in Afghanistan along with an honourable return of Afghan refugees,” the foreign minister added.

The two diplomats also discussed the promotion of bilateral cooperation, enhancing regional ties and enhancing mutual cooperation.