TLTP
ISLAMABAD
Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has assured Pakistan’s complete support to the Afghan peace process.
Addressing a conference here at Institute of Strategic Studies on Tuesday, the foreign minister said that Pakistan respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan. He categorically said that Pakistan has no favourites in Afghanistan and it does not want to meddle in its internal affairs.
As the intra-Afghan dialogue is continuing, Qureshi said that Pakistan will accept the will of the people of Afghanistan. He said that Pakistan believes that only the Afghan people can determine their future and it cannot be imposed on them. He said that all sides will have to work together for a peaceful, prosperous and stable Afghanistan.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi said the commencement of talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban is a unique and historic opportunity for peace in Afghanistan and it must be seized by the Afghan leadership. He said that reduction in violence leading to a ceasefire is a necessity for peace in the country.
The foreign minister also emphasized the need for greater collaboration between the two countries in different fields to build a common future.
He said that the ongoing visit of Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, Dr Abdullah Abdullah, to Pakistan possesses great importance.
He said that the international community is backing the political process in Afghanistan and Kabul leadership should take advantage of the opportunity. The foreign minister reiterated that he is admitting the fact that Afghan conflict will be resolved through dialogues.
Qureshi said that all sides should remain vigilant about the elements trying to affect the ongoing peace process. It is inevitable for regional prosperity to continue the peace process in Afghanistan, he added.
He continued that peace in Afghanistan will also ensure peace in Pakistan and the decision for the future of the neighbouring country will be made by its nation.
