Pakistan desires broad-based, sustainable relationship with US: FM Qureshi

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Friday that Pakistan desired a broad-based, long term and sustainable relationship with the United States (US) for the promotion of economic cooperation and regional peace.

The FM's remarks came during a meeting with visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman in Islamabad.

The deputy secretary of state was accompanied by Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia Donald Lu. Views were exchanged on bilateral relations, Afghanistan, and regional peace and stability during the meeting, said a statement issued by the Foreign Office.

"A regular and organised dialogue between the two countries is important to promote bilateral relations as well as to achieve shared regional objectives," the foreign minister stressed.

He further said both the US and Pakistan have common views on Afghanistan.

Qureshi expressed confidence that the new Afghan setup would work for peace and stability as well as for the betterment of its people.

He also noted that a representative and broad-based Afghan government can be a trustworthy partner for the international community.

"The international community should positively engage with Afghanistan and provide humanitarian and financial resources to it," he said. "Concrete steps should be taken to build a sustainable economy in Afghanistan and address the difficulties of Afghan people."

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Furthermore, alluding to the serious human rights violations in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the foreign minister called for resolution of the dispute for durable peace and stability in South Asia.

FM Qureshi also thanked the United States for the Covid-related support extended to Pakistan.

Deputy Secretary Sherman commended Pakistan's help in the evacuation of American and other nationals from Afghanistan, and its consistent efforts for peace in the region.

She underscored the importance of long-standing relationship between Pakistan and the US. It was agreed to continue close communication and coordination on the situation in Afghanistan, security and counter-terrorism, trade and investment, climate change, economic cooperation, and regional connectivity.

She also expressed her deep grief and sorrow over the human and material loss in Balochistan's earthquake.

Deputy Secretary Sherman’s visit follows the recent meeting between Foreign Minister Qureshi and US Secretary of State Blinken on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York on September 23, 2021.