WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Imran Khan’s statement on the importance of peace with Kabul received a warm acceptance from the Trump administration of the United States.
During a press conference, United States Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice Wells lauded Prime Minister Khan’s message of peace on both sides of the Pak-Afghan border.
The top US official stressed on Pakistan’s crucial role in bringing long-term stability to Afghanistan.
“We encourage Pakistan to take stronger steps to ensure that the Taliban comes to the negotiating table rather than enjoying safe havens in the country. Both Pakistan and Afghanistan embarked an effort to improve their ties for negotiating a solidarity document which we strongly support,” she said.
“We look forward to working with the new government [in Pakistan]. We are urging them to do more. We welcome [Pakistan Prime Minister] Imran Khan’s words when he discussed the importance of having peace on both sides of the border,” she added.
Wells highlighted Afghan President Ashraf Ghani’s efforts of peace, saying “Ghani is putting forth a peace proposal in the interests of the Afghan people, it is the perfect time for all parties to come to the negotiating table.”
Explaining India’s role in Afghanistan, the diplomat said India is supporting the economic development of Afghanistan up to 2020.
