Prime Minister Imran Khan yesterday warned of dire consequences of spoilers, internal and external, in the way of Afghan peace talks.
Prime Minister Imran Khan was talking to Hizb-e-Islami leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, who had called on the premier to discuss the peace process in Afghanistan. Gulbuddin has come to Pakistan on a three-day official visit.
Other than the obvious disruption of the stability of the region any hindrances to the peace and stability of Afghanistan would be detrimental to the potential prosperity that will be gained by economic progress within the region.
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The Prime Minister also expressed earnest wishes for the success of the Afghan peace process. He said, remaining steadfast on his longstanding position that there was no military solution to Afghanistan’s issues. He reiterated his belief that only an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process could reach a working solution. This opportunity according to him, is a pivotal opportunity for leaders in Afghanistan to establish a lasting and enduring peace in the country.
Pakistan’s essential role in the Afghan peace talks
Underlining the positive contribution made by Pakistan towards facilitating the Afghan peace process, the prime minister hoped that the Afghan parties would work to secure an inclusive, broad-based, and comprehensive political settlement.
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PM Khan also mentioned the contributions that Pakistan had made towards catalyzing the Afghan peace talks. He also expressed his hope that the parties involved in the peace talks would reach an inclusive, encompassing deal that will engage all parties.
The role of economics in peace
Afghanistan’s potential for being the hub of regional connectivity was also mentioned in the meeting by the Prime Minister. Bilateral trade, transit, and economic connectivity within the two nations were discussed.
Hekmatyar arrives in Islamabadhttps://t.co/a9IIVFLxac#Hekmatyar #AfghanPeaceProcess pic.twitter.com/AgJUMUtoa6
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PM Khan also ensured Gulbuddin of Pakistan’s affirmed support for the reconstruction and economic development of Afghanistan. He ensured the ‘dignified return’ of Afghan refugees as well.
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Gulbuddin Hekmatyar expressed a profound appreciation for Pakistan’s role in encouraging the Afghan peace talks, the economic and social ties between the two countries, and for taking in millions of refugees during the four decades of violence in Afghanistan.
GVS News Desk