ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday reiterated that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan, saying that a negotiated political settlement is the only way forward.
The prime minister was speaking to Ahmad Wali Massoud, Head of Massoud Foundation, Afghanistan, who called on him, a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office said.
“After Afghanistan, Pakistan is the most desirous of restoration of peace in that country as it is deeply affected by the conflict,” he added. In the context of the Afghan peace process, he highlighted that Pakistan had extended full support to facilitate the US-Taliban Peace Agreement.
The premier stressed that the Intra-Afghan Negotiations provided a “historic opportunity, which must be seized by the Afghan leadership to achieve an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement.”
“Pakistan had been emphasising the need for all sides to work together constructively, take steps for reduction of violence leading to ceasefire, and secure a political solution for a peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan,” he added.
PM Imran also underscored that the return of peace in Afghanistan would have lasting benefits for the region and beyond, through economic development, regional trade, and improved connectivity.
He also pointed out a range of steps, including the introduction of a liberal visa regime, and increased facilitation in bilateral and transit trade to further strengthen fraternal ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The visit of Ahmad Wali Massoud and his delegation is in continuation of Pakistan’s policy to reach out to the Afghan leaders to further strengthen bilateral ties and enhance mutual convergence on the Afghan peace process.
He also extended a warm welcome to Ahmad Wali Massoud and stated that Pakistan and Afghanistan were “bound by a fraternal relationship, rooted deep in shared history and commonalities of faith, culture and traditions”, according to the statement.
