PM's comments on Afghanistan misinterpreted: FO

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan comments on Afghanistan have been reported out of context in the media, leading to unwarranted reaction from various quarters, Foreign Office (FO) clarified on Wednesday.

In his comments, the PM had referred to Pakistan’s model where elections are held under an interim government. The comments should not be misinterpreted to imply interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs, the FO said in a statement.

“Pakistan has no other interest in Afghanistan but to promote peace through an ‘Afghan owned’ and ‘Afghan led’ political process.”

PM Imran Khan has taken personal interest in facilitating the ongoing political reconciliation process and the same must not be misconstrued to undermine the sincere efforts of Pakistan or to create misunderstandings at this crucial stage of the process, the press release said.

It added that Prime Minister of Pakistan understands the plight of brave people of Afghanistan, who have a right to live in peace after four decades of violence and war.

On Monday, PM Khan had made the comments while talking about Afghan peace process during an informal talk with journalists.

Reuters reported that Afghanistan had summoned Pakistan’s deputy ambassador to discuss the remarks by Prime Minister Khan, said Afghan foreign affairs ministry spokesman Sibghatullah Ahmadi in a series of tweets on Tuesday.