Bajwa vows support for Afghan peace efforts

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): Pakistan’s army chief has promised continued support for efforts for regional peace and stability.

Chief of the Army Staff Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa held out the assurance to US Special Envoy for Afghanistan reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad

The diplomat is visiting Pakistan along with Gen Austin Scott Miller, commander of NATO’s Resolute Support Mission (RSM) in Afghanistan.

The army’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said matters of mutual interest, including the overall regional security situation with particular reference to the ongoing Afghan reconciliation process, were discussed during the meeting.

“The COAS appreciated the role of RSM for peace and stability in Afghanistan and assured that Pakistan will continue to play its positive role for peace and stability in the region,” ISPR said in a statement.

The visiting US diplomat commended Pakistan’s untiring efforts for facilitating the process towards the mutual objective of peace in the region.

“Given how much is at stake, it is imperative that there is no delay in resumption of talks and they must resume on Jan 5 as agreed,” Khalilzad tweeted.

This year, Islamabad not only helped the US and Taliban sign their peace agreement, but also facilitated the start of intra-Afghan negotiations.

With the negotiating teams on a three-week break, the intra0Afghan dialogue will resume from Jan 5, 2021.

After landing in Islamabad, Khalilzad tweeted: “Tragically, the war continues. The need for a political settlement, reduction in violence, and a ceasefire remain urgent.”

mud