Iran and Afghanistan are not enemies but friendly countries: Sartaj Aziz

ISLAMABAD: Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz on Wednesday said that Iran and Afghanistan are not enemies but friendly countries.

The advisor while speaking to media said that Pakistan and Iran have agreed to constitute a new border management commission in order to address border related issues.

He said that the commission will comprise four members from each side and it will hold the first meeting this month. He pointed out there is not only the issue of extremist elements on Pak-Iran border but also of illegal smuggling and others.

He said our aim is to further strengthen border mechanisms in such a manner that no security vacuum is created. He said that the Afghan border at Chaman has partially been opened, and sick Afghan nationals are being allowed to go back to their homes.

Relations with Afghanistan

Sartaj Aziz stressed upon Afghanistan to take action against sanctuaries of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. He pointed out that proscribed outfits have been crossing through the porous border and launching terrorist attacks in Pakistan.

Addressing a seminar, the Adviser said Pakistan has made sincere efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan. He stressed that political solution can pave the way for durable peace, which also vital for peace and security of Pakistan.

Mr. Aziz said meaningful engagement between both countries is of key importance for peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region.

He said that exchange of visits has gained momentum in recent weeks, and it is essential that these interactions are streamlined to enhance the bilateral cooperation mechanism agreed upon in March for cooperation in political, diplomatic, military and intelligence fields.

Referring to Pakistan’s assistance to Afghanistan, Aziz said Pakistan has undertaken development projects in Afghanistan worth 500 million dollars, and has provided three scholarships to Afghan students for education colleges and universities in Pakistan.

He said Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad has been launched to eradicate the remnant terrorist elements, which is continuing successfully and have destroyed terrorist sanctuaries in Waziristan.