China respects Afghanistan’s national sovereignty: Envoy

KABUL (Pajhwok): China’s special envoy for Afghanistan says Beijing respects Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and values, expressing his country’s desire to strengthen long-term ties based on mutual respect.

Yue Xiaoyong said this at a meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Mohammad Naeem, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said.

A statement from the ministry said the two sides discussed bilateral ties as well as the recent tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Dr. Naeem said China and Afghanistan were two historic neighbours with many commonalities and thanked Beijing for its continued support.

He reaffirmed that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) was committed to engagement with all countries based on mutual relations and would not allow anyone to use Afghanistan’s territory against others.

He added: “Unfortunately, Pakistan has been testing the patience of IEA for the past four years, compelling it to react. The firm position of IEA is that problems should be resolved through dialogue and understanding.”

Yue Xiaoyong reiterated China’s respect for Afghanistan’s national sovereignty and values, saying Beijing seeks to strengthen long-term ties based on mutual respect.

He added that China was ready to play a constructive role in resolving disputes between Afghanistan and Pakistan and welcomed the mediation efforts of Qatar and Turkey in this regard.

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