ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has hoped for the early commencement of Intra-Afghan talks and urged Afghan leadership to seize the “historic opportunity” for peace in the country.
According to a statement, the premier made the comments during a telephonic conversation with Chairman Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah.
PM Imran further said, “Afghan leaders must seize this historic opportunity to achieve an inclusive political settlement contributing to durable peace, security, and prosperity in Afghanistan.”
He said that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan and a negotiated political settlement is the only way forward.
Pakistan looks forward to the commencement of Intra-Afghan Negotiations at the earliest, the PM Imran added,
The premier also underscored the importance of Pakistan-Afghanistan bilateral relations, that are based on common faith and culture, shared history and fraternal bonds between the two countries.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further deepen brotherly ties and enhance cooperation in all fields.
The premier invited Dr Abdullah to visit the country as soon as possible to exchange views on advancing the Afghan peace process and forging closer ties between the two countries.
Meanwhile, in a tweet, Dr Abdullah appreciated Pakistan’s support in the Afghan peace process.
“We reiterated on the unique opportunity to reduce violence, start Intra-Afghan talks and pursue a path to a dignified and durable peace,” Abdullah said, of his conversion with the premier.
“I thanked the PM for the invitation, and will visit Pakistan in near future,” he added. He also informed PM of the progress made on the peace deal associated between the US and the Taliban.
In a phone call with HE @ImranKhanPTI, I appreciated PAK's support for the peace process. We reiterated on the unique opportunity to reduce violence, start I/A talks & pursue a path to a dignified & durable peace.
I thanked the PM for invitation, & visit Pakistan in near future. pic.twitter.com/xcb4ulEXlI— Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (@DrabdullahCE) August 26, 2020
