Islamabad seeks Russia’s mediation over tensions with Afghanistan: Envoy

KABUL (Pajhwok): Pakistan’s ambassador to Russia says Islamabad has asked Moscow to mediate in ongoing tensions with Afghanistan, according to reports.

Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s ambassador in Moscow, told the Russian newspaper Izvestia that Pakistan is engaging with Russia and appreciates its “extraordinary offer” to help resolve the tensions.

He noted that proposals from Russia, China, Qatar, Turkey and Saudi Arabia had led to an agreement on a temporary ceasefire.

This follows the announcement by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and Pakistan’s military regime on the night of Eid that military operations would be temporarily halted for Eid al-Fitr, following requests from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

Responding to a question on whether Islamabad intended to approach Moscow regarding tensions with Afghanistan or had already done so, Tirmizi said: “Yes, we have done so. We are in contact with Russia and are grateful for this extraordinary offer.”

hz/sa