ISLAMABAD: Prime minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Sartaj Aziz, called on the Afghan President Muhammad Ashraf Ghani on Thursday on the side-lines of the Brussels Conference on Afghanistan.
While discussing efforts for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan, Aziz reiterated Pakistan’s earnest desire for peace in Afghanistan – which was important for stability and progress of Pakistan.
He emphasised the need for continued engagement and support of international community for sustainable economic development and growth in Afghanistan.
The Afghan president appreciated Pakistan’s pledge of further $500 million economic assistance to Kabul – which demonstrated the country’s solidarity and support for the government and people of Afghanistan.
He suggested that the two governments should work together to identify the projects in consultation with Afghan government according to its development priorities.
President Ghani also appreciated the announcement of 3,000 scholarships for Afghan students in Pakistani universities – which would greatly help institution building in Afghanistan.
Ghani and Aziz later discussed efforts for peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. Emphasising that lasting peace and stability could be achieved through a politically negotiated settlement, Aziz commended Afghan government for concluding a peace deal with Hizb-e-Islami.
He expressed hope and optimism that the said development could lead to opportunities for similar peace arrangements with other insurgents.
Recalling the country’s serious efforts for facilitating peace talks between the Afghan government and its Taliban, Aziz conveyed that Pakistan will continue to make these efforts. Ghani expressed concerns over Taliban’s continued refusal for peace which was causing violence in Afghanistan.
