Kabir to JUI-F chief: Let’s discuss realities

ATLANTA (Pajhwok): Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs Maulvi Abdul Kabir says Afghanistan’s territory will not be used against anyone, stressing discussions on realities instead of believing in media claims and propaganda.

He held out the promise during a meeting with Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and the delegation accompanying him on Sunday, the Presidential Palace in Kabul said.

Acting Foreign Minister Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi and other members of the cabinet were also present at the meeting, a statement from the Palace said.

Kabir welcomed Maulana Fazlur Rehman and his delegation to Kabul and hoped his visit would be effective in strengthening relations between two neighbours and promoting mutual understanding.

He told the visiting team the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) desire good relations with all neighbouring countries, particularly with Pakistan, on the basis of mutual respect.

The deputy primer called for discussing realities instead of believing in media claims and propaganda.

He added misbehavior with Afghan refugees in Pakistan and their expulsion should be halted and necessary facilities provided for them.

“We assure Maulana Fazlur Rehman and his delegation that we want peace and stability in the region,” Kabir was quoted as saying.

He expressed the hope the JUI-F chief’s visit to Kabul would help in boosting the bilateral relationship and removing misunderstandings between the two countries.

Rehman said he would not support the deportation of Afghan refugees. He suggested the two countries should talk about enhancing cooperation on sorting out irritants. “All issues should be resolved through talks.”

Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi briefed the two sides on the economic and security situation of the region. He hoped the visit would have a positive impact on the regional situation.

Muttaqi believed the JUI-F head would apprise the Pakistan government of Afghanistan’s point of view on important bilateral matters.

On the special invitation of the Afghan government, Fazlur Rehman arrived in Kabul on Sunday for discussions with the IEA leadership on the regional situation, with particular reference to the need for peace.

He is accompanied by Maulana Abdul Wasay, Maulana Salahuddin, Maulana Jamaluddin, Maulana Saleemuddin Shamzai, Maulana Kamaluddin, Maulana Idrees, Maulana Imdadullah and Mufti Abrar.

Earlier, Pakistani media reported Maulana Fazlur Rehman would also travel to southern Kandahar province to meet IEA Supreme Leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada.

kk/mud