Pakistan

Germany thanks Pakistan for supporting Afghanistan evacuations

German foreign minister in meeting with PM Imran also discusses Afghan crisis, bilateral ties

News Desk August 31, 2021

Families begin to board a US Air Force Boeing C-17 Globemaster III during an evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport, Kabul. PHOTO: AFP

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas called on Prime Minister Imran Khan and thanked Pakistan for helping to evacuate its citizens from Afghanistan after the Taliban took control of Kabul.

During the meeting, views were exchanged on the situation in Afghanistan as well as Pakistan-Germany bilateral relations, the official statement said on Tuesday.

German Foreign Minister @HeikoMaas called on Prime Minister @ImranKhanPTI today. pic.twitter.com/jDx4nFO0GX
— Prime Minister's Office, Pakistan (@PakPMO) August 31, 2021

The prime minister recalled his conversation with German Chancellor Merkel, in which the two leaders had “fruitful exchange of views” on the Afghanistan situation.

PM Imran underscored that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is vitally important for Pakistan and the region.

He also stressed that at this pivotal moment in Afghanistan’s history, it is important for the international community to remain in support and solidarity with the Afghan people.

The prime minister underlined that urgent steps are needed to stabilise the security situation, address humanitarian needs and ensure economic stability in Afghanistan.

Also read: Pakistan takes centre stage in West’s evacuation effort

These would require sustained engagement with Afghanistan, he added.

The prime minister underscored that both Pakistan and Germany should work closely for the promotion of shared interests relating to regional peace and stability.

Heiko Maas conveyed cordial greetings of Chancellor Merkel.

“While sharing Germany’s viewpoint on the evolving situation in Afghanistan, he thanked for Pakistan’s support and facilitation for Germany’s evacuation endeavours from Afghanistan,” the communiqué read.

The German foreign minister also highlighted the celebration of the 70th anniversary of establishment of Pakistan-Germany diplomatic relations during 2021. The two countries are holding a series of events to celebrate this milestone in a befitting manner.