Nicholson hopes Pakistan to do ‘maximum’ for Afghan peace

JALALABAD (Pajhwok): NATO would do all it could to restore peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Nicholson was talking at a press conference in Jalalabad, the provincial capital of eastern Nangarhar province after meeting local officials.

The US general discussed the peace process, ceasefire with the Taliban, eradication of Daesh and future elections with local officials.

Nichlson told reporters no direct contact had been established with the Taliban, but through diplomats they were encouraging different countries to use their influence and bring the Taliban to the negotiating table.

He hailed recent efforts of Saudi Arabia regarding the Afghan reconciliation process and hoped Pakistan would do all it could to restore peace in the war-torn country.

The NATO commander hailed recent contacts between the Afghan and Pakistani officials and termed them as vital for Afghan peace process. “We hope that Pakistan will do maximum to encourage the Taliban to reconcile,” he said.

Referring to Daesh insurgent group, Gen. Nicholson said: “Today we are here talking to you about the elimination of Daesh, it is a place which the Daesh wanted to convert into Khurasan.”

Governor Hayatullah Hayat during the meeting talked about peace process, eradication of Daesh, ceasefire and security of upcoming elections. The NATO commander had assured him full support, he said.

“We talked with Gen. Nicholson in detail regarding security situation, future plans, ceasefire, peace process and the upcoming elections,” said Hayat.

nh/ma

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