US-Taliban deal first step towards bringing permanent peace in Afghanistan: FM Qureshi
He said both US and Afghan leadership have acknowledged Islamabad's role in realizing the deal.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that landmark Doha Peace Accord between the United States and Afghan Taliban is a first step towards bringing permanent peace and stability in Afghanistan.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad along with Secretary Sohail Mahmood on Sunday, he said that the people of Afghanistan want peace, adding that they have seen war in the country for a long period.
The foreign minister said that it has to be seen how much flexibility does the Afghan government show [for negotiations] and whether it will keep Afghan interests foremost or its own interests ... are they ready to compromise for larger interests.
Qureshi went on to say that the process of fencing Pak-Afghan border is underway. “Over the past 19 years, the Afghan people have seen the problems of migration and deportation and they also want peace after a long war,” he said.
“The peace deal has paved the way for Intra-Afghan negotiations, and Norway has expressed its willingness to hold the dialogue,” he said and added both the US and Afghan leadership have acknowledged Islamabad s role in realizing this deal.
He reiterated that Pakistan will continue its policy of supporting the Afghan people in their efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan.
The FM further said that those who had criticized Pakistan were now appreciating Islamabad’s positive role.
