Afghanistan’s peace linked with peace, security in Pakistan, says PM

ISLAMABAD: PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Sunday said Pakistan had an important stake in peace and stability in Afghanistan as Pakistan has suffered the most due to conflict in the neighbouring country.

“Our country is committed to its support for the Afghan people and this has been in evidence over decades including through the presence of more than five million refugees for over three decades. Afghanistan’s peace is linked with peace and security in Pakistan,” he said while talking to US CENTCOM Commander General Joseph L. Votel on Saturday, who is on a two day visit to Pakistan.

The PM expressed concern about the presence of Daesh in Afghanistan which could threaten all its neighbours.

He also referred to the unacceptable situation of human rights in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir where a very large Indian military presence was used for oppression of innocent Kashmiri people, who only sought the realization of their right to self-determination.

General Votel underscored the importance that the US attaches to Pakistan and its importance for achieving the objective of peace and security in Afghanistan. He greatly appreciated the efforts being undertaken by Pakistan in fighting terrorism.