Will continue supporting Afghanistan to avoid 90s situation, Qureshi tells EU

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Afghanistan should not be left alone in order to avoid a "90s like situation", and that the crisis in the neighbouring country required a sustained international support.

“At this critical juncture, it was vitally important to remain in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and extend support to them, both in the humanitarian arena and for economic sustenance,” the foreign minister said in a telephonic conversation with Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the European Commission.

The foreign minister shared Pakistan’s perspective on the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

He stressed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was of critical importance to Pakistan and the region. Consistent with Pakistan’s long-standing stance, the foreign minister underlined the importance of an inclusive political solution.

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Qureshi expressed the hope that the Afghan leaders would work together to achieve the desire results. For its part, he reaffirmed, Pakistan would continue to support all efforts in this direction.

He underlined that the highest priorities remained ensuring safety and security as well as protection of the rights of all Afghans.

Qureshi noted that Pakistan remained in close contact with regional and international partners.

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He briefed Borrell of his interactions with several counterparts from Europe. Underlining the importance of regional perspective, Foreign Minister Qureshi also informed him about his upcoming visit to the neighbouring countries to coordinate on issues relating to the situation in Afghanistan.

The foreign minister highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate evacuation of diplomatic personnel and staff of international organisations and others from Afghanistan.

Qureshi assured full support of the government of Pakistan to the EU in their evacuation efforts.

It was agreed by both sides to remain in contact and to coordinate closely on the evolving situation.