Austin, Bajwa talk US withdrawal from Afghanistan

PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): The US defense secretary has commended Pakistan’s continuous efforts for peace and stability in the region.

In a phone call on Wednesday, Gen. Llyod Austin and Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa discussed the drawdown of American troops in Afghanistan.

The army’s media wing said matters of mutual interest and the regional security situation, including new developments in the Afghan peace process, were also discussed.

In a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Gen Bajwa promised Pakistan would always support an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace process based on consensus among all stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon confirmed Austin’s telephone conversation with Gen Bajwa on regional stability and security.

“During the call, Secretary Austin reaffirmed the importance of the US– Pakistan bilateral relationship and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s support for Afghanistan peace negotiations,” the Defense Department said in a statement.

Austin and Bajwa underlined the desire of the United States and Pakistan to continue working together on shared goals and objectives in the region.

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