Afghan president welcomes Pakistan's peace efforts

Ghani warned that those opposed to the peace efforts could mislead people through disinformation

ISLAMABAD: Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani on Friday welcomed Pakistan’s initiative to help in the reconciliation process amid reports that the Taliban have signaled their willingness to hold dialogue.

Ghani’s office; however, warned that opponents to the peace efforts could mislead the people through disinformation.

"The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan respects Pakistan's recent efforts to pave the way for peace and reconciliation," the Presidential Palace said in a statement.

The statement released by the Afghan Embassy in Islamabad, also welcomed COAS Raheel Sharif's remarks that Pakistan considers "Afghanistan's enemy as its own enemy" during his recent meeting with President Ghani and Chief Executive Dr Abdullah Abdullah.

“Pakistani and Afghanistan leaders have reached a conclusion to begin joint efforts in view of threats and difficulties. The shocking attacks on the army school in Peshawar and Paktika’s Yahya Khel area have strengthened determination and commitment in both countries to jointly fight against terrorism and extremism.”

Nearly 45 people were killed in the deadly suicide attack in a volleyball match in Paktika in November 2014.

The statement added that Afghanistan, Pakistan, and international allies are committed to sincerely cooperate with each other to achieve peace.

Like Pakistan, Afghan government also believes that certain elements could try to derail the peace process.

"No doubt there would be people to oppose the peace process. They would also try to mislead the people through spreading disinformation. The National Unity Government is determined to carry the peace process forward in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Afghanistan."

As the peace move is likely to pick up in the coming weeks, the Afghan president has stepped up consultations with stakeholders in the country to evolve consensus.

On Friday, President Ghani took members of the High Peace Council, which is assigned the reconciliation process with the armed opponents, and discussed with them ways for the possible peace process, presidential palace said.

Ghani told council members that establishment of peace in Afghanistan is his priority and that there is a consensus on the issue, which shall surely be achieved.

The peace council members threw their weight behind Ghani’s reconciliation move, the Pashto-language statement added.

“Establishment of peace in our country is very difficult after a long war and mistrust. However, being a nation we must bring peace to our country and not to permit repetition of the history of hostilities,” Ghani was quoted as saying.

“The peace route is not a short route. But I am confident to prove all international experiences wrong and bring peace to our country as soon as possible,” added Ghani.