Qureshi trying to build ‘regional consensus’ on Afghanistan, tells Chinese FM

Pakistan’s decision to recognize Taliban rule in Afghanistan should be a regional one, Federal Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi informed his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Wednesday that he would visit other countries to develop a “regional consensus”. Emerging Situation in Afghanistan”.

A statement issued by the foreign ministry said Qureshi shared details of his upcoming visits with Yi during a telephone call, adding that the two foreign ministers remain in touch on common interests, especially the situation in Afghanistan. agreed to.

After China comes exchanges between foreign ministers Said It is set to deepen “friendly and cooperative” ties with Afghanistan after the country’s takeover by the Taliban.

“The Taliban have repeatedly expressed their hope of developing good relations with China, and they look forward to China’s participation in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan,” a Chinese government spokesman said on Monday.

The spokesman also called on the Taliban to “ensure a smooth transition” of power and negotiate the establishment of an “open and inclusive Islamic government” and to keep its promises to ensure the safety of Afghans and foreign nationals.

Qureshi shares details of a recent event held with Yi National Security Committee meeting (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan, was convened to discuss Pakistan’s future strategy on Afghanistan, according to the statement.

In line with decisions taken during the NSC meeting, the External Affairs Minister insisted on an “inclusive political settlement” in Afghanistan, which he said would require all Afghans to work together.

Qureshi was quoted as saying in the statement, “A peaceful and stable Afghanistan is extremely important for Pakistan and the entire region.” In light of this observation, Qureshi said, Pakistan is strongly supporting the Afghan peace process.

According to the statement, they also acknowledged the significant contributions made by China and Pakistan as part of Troika Plus to support the initiative to restore peace in the war-torn country.

He further stressed the need to ensure the safety and security of Afghan citizens and their rights.

Qureshi also called on the international community to continue its support for the people of Afghanistan, especially the provision of economic assistance.

In addition, the statement said, Qureshi briefed Yi about Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate the evacuation of diplomatic staff, journalists and others from Afghanistan.

Discussing bilateral ties between China and Pakistan, Qureshi described the two countries as “iron-clad brothers” and strategic partners.

“The two countries have a tradition of maintaining close coordination and communication on issues of common interest and importance,” he said.

The phone call between Qureshi and Yi is the latest development in Pakistan’s efforts to forge a regional consensus on the situation in Afghanistan, which is facing uncertainty and fear in the wake of one. Taliban takeover.

The Taliban entered Kabul on Sunday in the backdrop of President Ashraf Ghani fleeing the country after swiftly conquering several provincial capitals in Afghanistan. The rapid rise of the Taliban stunned the world, raising fears that they would return to the repressive regime seen during their initial rule in Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001.

Now, as the world considers options with respect to Afghanistan, Pakistan Is said Any recognition of Taliban rule in Afghanistan would be a regional decision taken after consultation with regional and international powers.

Meanwhile, leaders from the West are reaching out to discuss the evolving situation in the neighboring country.

Prime Minister Imran Khan received telephone calls In this regard on Tuesday with his British counterpart Boris Johnson and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Speaking to them, the Prime Minister had underlined the paramount importance of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan for Pakistan and the region. He also emphasized that safety and security, as well as protection of the rights of all Afghans, are of critical importance.

He had further underlined that an inclusive political settlement was the best way forward, adding that Pakistan is reaching out to all Afghan leaders for this purpose.

according to a dawn According to the report, Johnson and Merkel have agreed to be in touch with Prime Minister Imran Khan on the emerging situation in Afghanistan.

Earlier on Monday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken Called Qureshi will discuss the situation in Afghanistan.

According to radio pakistanQureshi assured Blinken during the telephone conversation that Pakistan would remain closely engaged with the US and other international partners in “promoting efforts to support a peaceful and stable Afghanistan”.

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