Pakistan to facilitate troop drawdown in Afghanistan, US general told

US General hints at continued bilateral programmes including the Coalition Support Fund.

ISLAMABAD: With the date for US troop drawdown in Afghanistan getting closer, the US commander of the Central Command (US CENTCOM) General Lloyd Austin was assured on Friday that Pakistan will continue facilitating the US drawdown and the peace process in Afghanistan, while the latter hinted at the possible continuation of their relation and the Coalition Support Fund (CSF) beyond exit from Afghanistan.

General Austin who called on Secretary for Defence Lt Gen (retd) Asif Yasin Malik, and the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Khalid  Shamim Wayne in Islamabad on Friday.

The US commander, while terming Pakistan as a vital partner for regional security, appreciated its role in facilitating the drawdown.

General Austin said that consultative forums like DCG had helped cement our military to military relations aimed at improving peace and stability in the region. He added that continued support in training, education and the Coalition Support Fund would act as tools necessary to keep relations on solid footing.

Malik asserted that Pakistan wanted peace in the region and was ready to play role for achieving the goal of lasting stability. He added that Pakistan earnestly wished for a stable and peaceful Afghanistan and pursues a policy of non-interference in Afghan affairs.

Moreover, Pakistan would always facilitate the reconciliation and peace process in Afghanistan for a durable peace in the Region.

General Austin also called on the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Khalid Shameem Wayne.

US Ambassador to Pakistan, Richard Olson was also present in the meeting.