‘Joint efforts’ between Pakistan, Iran key for ‘stable Afghanistan’: FM Shah Mahmood Qureshi

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi observed on Tuesday that “joint efforts” between Islamabad and Tehran is key to achieving a “peaceful and stable Afghanistan”, said the Foreign Office spokesperson.

Foreign Minister Qureshi held a working luncheon with Iran’s top diplomat Dr Amir Abdullahian at the Iranian Foreign Ministry in Tehran. Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Muhammad Sadiq, Pakistani envoy to Iran Rahim Hayat Qureshi and other senior officials attended the luncheon.

The two diplomats had extensive discussions on matters of mutual interest.

Recalling Pakistan’s initiative of developing a regional approach to Afghanistan, the foreign minister remarked that his visit to Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Iran led to the first meeting of the neighbouring countries of Afghanistan.

“Foreign Minister Qureshi highlighted importance of close coordination between the two countries, adding that joint efforts would achieve shared objective of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan,” said the spokesperson.

Sharing his perspective on Afghanistan following his recent visit to Kabul, Qureshi highlighted the urgent need to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan to stabilise the country’s economy.

“Pakistan would continue to extend support to Afghan brethren by facilitating trade and movement across border,” reaffirmed Pakistan’s top diplomat.

In the bilateral context, foreign minister Qureshi reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhance bilateral relations in all areas, adding that Pakistan considers Iran a close neighbour and an important country.

Meanwhile, Dr Amir thanked foreign minister Qureshi for accepting Iran’s invitation to participate in the second meeting of the neighbouring countries of Afghanistan and reaffirmed the importance of close coordination on Afghanistan.

He expressed hope for the success of joint efforts to help Afghanistan on its path to peace and prosperity. He reiterated Iran’s full commitment to strengthening bilateral relations in all fields.

Foreign Minister Qureshi is in Tehran on a two-day official visit to attend the ministerial meeting of Afghanistan’s close neighbours.

The meeting is scheduled to take place tomorrow.

FM Qureshi will represent Pakistan’s viewpoint at the meeting and hold talks with the top Iranian leadership in Tehran.