FM repeats call for humanitarian aid to Afghanistan

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi underlined on Saturday the need for achieving an inclusive political settlement in Afghanistan and the importance of the international community in providing humanitarian and economic assistance to the war-torn country.

Speaking to Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau, during a phone call, according to the Foreign Office, Qureshi emphasised that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was of paramount importance for Pakistan and the region.

During phone call, initiated by Garneau, the two foreign ministers exchanged views on the latest developments in Afghanistan. Qureshi apprised his counterpart of his regional outreach efforts regarding the situation in the neighbouring country.

Qureshi also briefed Garneau about the humanitarian support provided by Pakistan, including establishment of a humanitarian corridor for the delivery of relief goods and in-kind assistance by Pakistan for its Afghan brethren through air and land routes.

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In the bilateral context, Foreign Minister Qureshi expressed the hope that the next round of bilateral political consultations scheduled to be held in October 2021 would be conducted “in-person” if the Covid situation improved.

The foreign minister also called upon the Canadian government to ease the visa regime, especially for the students and businessmen and asked for further positive revision of Canadian travel advisory for Pakistan.

The tragic incident of 16 September, involving a Pakistani-Canadian family in Hamilton Ontario, was also discussed by the two foreign ministers. Qureshi expressed confidence in the ability of Canadian authorities to ensure justice.

Foreign Minister Garneau agreed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan was crucial to the regional peace, stability and prosperity, and praised Pakistan’s efforts in promoting these objectives. He thanked Pakistan for facilitating in evacuation related efforts and hoped that such support would continue.