The Adviser Meets a High-Level Afghan Delegation

The Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sartaj Aziz held a meeting with a high-level delegation from Afghanistan led by Afghan Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani, who was accompanied by Mr. Masoom Stanekzai, Acting Defence Minister and Mr. Rahmatullah Nabil, Director General of Afghan National Directorate of Security and others.

The two sides, inter alia, had candid discussion on Pakistan-Afghanistan bilateral relation, evolving political and security situation in Afghanistan, security cooperation between the two countries, and peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan.

The Adviser conveyed Pakistan’s conviction for building a constructive and forward-looking relationship with Afghanistan, and conveyed Pakistan’s readiness to work with Afghanistan in overcoming all challenges. He emphasized that the two countries should have trust and faith in each other and discourage spoilers and detractors who have been trying to create mistrust between the two brotherly countries.

The Adviser reiterated Pakistan’s condemnation of recent terrorist incidents in Afghanistan, expressed condolences, and underscored the need for joint efforts to meet common challenges and root-out menace of terrorism. He conveyed the message that Pakistan stands in solidarity with the fraternal people of Afghanistan and would continue to extend all possible support in their quest for peace and stability in Afghanistan, including through facilitating an Afghan-led and Afghan owned peace and reconciliation process.

Mr. Rabbani reaffirmed Afghanistan’s desire to work closely with Pakistan to enhance mutual cooperation in all areas of common interest. He concurred with the imperative of common endeavours for countering terrorism and for enduring peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region.

The two sides agreed to maintain close contact to promote bilateral cooperation, address all issues of common concern, and evolve a strategic consensus to respond to the security challenges of the region.

This was Mr. Rabbani’s first visit to Pakistan as Foreign Minister of Afghanistan.

Islamabad
13 August 2015

299/2015