Sherpao calls for Afghanistan’s inclusion in CPEC

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): A senior Pakistani political leader has urged Afghanistan Economic Corridor, a multibillion dollars project.

Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Chairman Aftab Ahmed Khan Sherpao suggested the creation of an economic in Jalalabad to boost trade between the neighbours.

He urged Afghan and Pakistani intellectuals to play their role in removing the trust deficit between the two countries and vanquishing the menace of terrorism.

Speaking to writers and poets on the silver jubilee of Pashto and Islamabad to strengthen bilateral trade to boost the regional economy.

Afghan diplomat Zardasht Shams, Noorul Bashar Naveed, Hashim Babar, Saadullah Jan Barq and Saleem Raz also stressed an improvement in Af-Pak ties.

Also a former interior minister, Sherpao believed the intelligentsia could play a vital role in shaping the mindset of the people. He asked writers to work jointly to ease the ongoing tension in the region.

Lasting peace was in the interests of both countries, said the QWP chief, who called Pakistan and Afghanistan victims of terrorism and extremism.

"It is high time to revitalise and reestablish cordial and friendly relations with each other to bring long-lasting peace and economic prosperity to the region," he remarked.

Unity among the Pakhtuns was the need of the hour for regional uplift and prosperity, Sherpao said, adding Pakhtuns had rendered sacrifices for the cause of Pakistan but they had not been given their due rights.

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