ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had a telephonic conversation with the US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and discussed bilateral relations and important developments in the region.
According a statement by the Foreign Office, the foreign minister underscored that securing peace in Afghanistan is the shared responsibility of all stakeholders inside Afghanistan as well as key regional and international players.
“Pakistan will remain a reliable partner for peace in Afghanistan,” he assured his counterpart. He said it is imperative for all relevant stakeholders to press all Afghan parties to engage constructively towards achieving an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement.
On bilateral relations, the Foreign Minister emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to forging a broad-based, long-term and sustainable relationship with the United States that was anchored in deep economic cooperation, regional connectivity and peace in the region.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi highlighted Pakistan’s focus on geo-economics as per the vision of Prime Minister Imran Khan and reiterated the importance of enhancing economic, trade and investment ties between Pakistan and the United States.
The two sides stressed the need for the two sides to continue close coordination and cooperation to ensure meaningful progress in the peace process. They also exchanged views on regional connectivity and other key issues. Foreign Minister Qureshi thanked Secretary Blinken for the Covid-related support extended to Pakistan by the United States.
