War on terror: ‘Pakistan, Afghanistan must jointly tackle post-2014 situation’

APC should be convened on security issues: Sherpao.

PESHAWAR: Qaumi Watan Party chairman Aftab Ahmad Sherpao said Pakistan and Afghanistan need to devise a joint strategy to deal with the post-2014 scenario in the region.

Sherpao said the withdrawal of US and allied forces from Afghanistan without a backup plan can be devastating. “Both countries need to be on the same page in their efforts to quell terrorism in the area,” said the QWP chairman, while speaking at a news conference at the Peshawar Press Club on Sunday.

Talking about the proposed visit of Afghan President Hamid Karzai to Pakistan, Sherpao said the move will help remove the trust deficit prevailing among neighbouring states inflicted with the menace of terrorism.

“Islamabad also needs to assure Kabul that both states are fighting a common enemy and Pakistan respects the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Afghanistan,” he added.

Regarding the poor law and order situation in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), Sherpao suggested an all parties conference should be convened on security followed by a national conference. He stressed all stakeholders, including the federal government, establishment and provinces, should be taken on board regarding national issues pertaining to security and law and order.

“We are not satisfied with the performance of the federal government on this matter,” he said. The use of force is not a permanent solution for any problem. “There must be a political solution to the ongoing militancy in the country.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 29^th, 2013.