Atmar, Khalilzad talk peace process, regional consensus

KABUL (Pajhwok): Minister of Foreign Affairs Haneef Atmar and US special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation Dr. Zalmay Khalilzad on Monday discussed the peace process, regional consensus on lasting peace and new chapter of Afghan-US relations after withdrawal of foreign forces, a statement said.

Haneef Atmar met with Khalilzad and his accompanying delegation in Kabul, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Charge d’ Affaires of the US Embassy Ross Wilson was also present at the meeting that conferred on issues related to the peace process, strengthening the regional consensus for lasting peace, and mutual opportunities for cooperation in the new chapter of US-Afghan relations following the withdrawal of the Resolute Support forces.

Considering the withdrawal of the Resolute Support forces from Afghanistan, both sides assessed the opportunities and challenges of bilateral cooperation.

They elaborated on accelerating the peace process, economic cooperation, the fight against terrorism, and maintaining and strengthening the achievements of the last two decades.

Both sides termed strengthening trilateral and multilateral cooperation instrumental to ensuring peace and fighting terrorism in Afghanistan and the region.

They further emphasized that the restoration of peace in Afghanistan was a prerequisite for advancing regional economic cooperation and integration.

Appreciating the United States’ full support for the Afghan peace process, and in particular Washington’s recent humanitarian assistance, Atmar spoke about the political will and plans of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to achieve lasting peace.

Khalilzad also assured Minister Atmar of the US continued support for peace and stability, the fight against terrorism, and regional connectivity as part of peace-building efforts in Afghanistan.

pr/ma