FM Qureshi, Javad Zarif discuss bilateral relations, regional situation

The Iranian Foreign Minister reciprocated Shah Mehmood Qureshi's views.

TEHRAN (Web Desk) - Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi now in Iran on the second leg of his four nation visit, held talks with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif in Tehran today.

They discussed the bilateral relations and the regional situation. Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and other members of the delegation were also present in the meeting.

The foreign Minister said Pakistan desires to further promote its political and economic ties with Iran. He said improving releations with all neighbors is corner stone of Pakistan’s foreign policy.

The Iranian Foreign Minister reciprocated Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s views saying that Iran is also committed to improve its relations and bilateral cooperation with Pakistan. 

Afghanistan visit

Pakistan has reiterated its support for an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led peace process in Afghanistan.

The commitment was expressed by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in his talks with Afghan President Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani in Kabul on Monday.

The Foreign Minister highlighted the need for greater synergy among regional countries to ensure long term peace and stability, in particular strengthening closer and effective linkages for greater connectivity, enhanced trade and exploitation of huge untapped natural and human resources in the region.

Foreign Minister Qureshi said Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity is the most effective framework that provides practical avenues to address all issues of mutual interest.

The Afghan leadership while appreciating Pakistan’s constructive role in furthering Afghan peace process, agreed to undertake joint steps for further strengthening of bilateral ties and agreed to expand cooperation and coordination against terrorism.

During the talks, the Foreign Minister was also accompanied by Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and other high ranking officials. Later, in a tweet, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said regional connectivity and a collective outlook is essential for progress. He termed his meetings with the Afghan leadership productive. Shah Mehmood Qureshi said peace process in Afghanistan is making positive headway.

Two days, four countries. We’re not slowing down as the year ends. I’ve had productive meetings with the Afghan leadership this morning.The peace process is making positive headway. Next stop is Iran. Regional connectivity and a collective outlook is essential for progress. pic.twitter.com/VX5vDw94XI

— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) December 24, 2018

FM Qureshi also held a meeting with his Afghan counterpart Salahuddin Rabbani. The talks, which were also attended by their respective delegations, focused on overall regional situation and bilateral ties.

Both Foreign Ministers agreed to promote two way political, trade and cultural relations.Qureshi underscored to increase contacts for durable peace and stability in the region.

Afghan Foreign Minister appreciated the efforts of Pakistan for bringing peace in his country.