Relations with Pakistan on the mend: President

KABUL in the past, but a new window of cooperation between the neighbours had been opened recently.

During their meeting at the Presidential Palace in Kabul, Ghani also briefed Germany’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Michael Koch on his recent week-long to the United States of America (USA).

A statement from the palace said the president also shared with the ambassador details of his address to Congress and productive talks with President Barack Obama and other US officials on outstanding issues between the two countries.

Koch praised Ghani government’s efforts for a comprehensive peace process and prosperity in Afghanistan, hailing the increasing Kabul-Islamabad cooperation in this regard. In case of need, he promised, Germany would also play its role.

According to the statement, Ghani appreciated Germany’s consistent generous assistance to his country over the past 13 years. He hoped for continued cooperation from Berlin, especially on technical issue.

The high-ranking Afghan delegation’s visit to America had created a new spirit of cooperation between Kabul and Washington, the president said. Obama has agreed to extend the US military presence and grant Afghanistan more aid.

“I have clearly explained to Pakistan that it has been involved in undeclared hostilities in Afghanistan. I have emphasised our relations should return to normal to pave the ground for cooperation,” the president added.  

However, Ghani explained, ties between the two countries had improved and growing cooperation was in the interest of both — as indeed the entire region. On peace talks, he promised nothing would be kept secret from the people.

The ambassador invited the president to visit Germany at a date of his convenience. Ghani responded with gratitude, saying the Foreign Ministry officials from the two countries would work on firming his itinerary.  

Separately, Koch also met Chief Executive Officer Abdullah Abdullah on a range of issues, including efforts for reconciliation talks, electoral reforms, regional cooperation for economic development and security.

Abdullah said: “Fundamental reforms in the electoral system is the foundation of the national unity government, Without cleaning up the system, the people will not trust the electoral process and will not vote in the next election…”

pr/mud

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