US Special Envoy Zalmay Khalilzad calls on Prime Minister Imran Khan

US Special Envoy for Afghan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad Monday called on Prime Minister Imran Khan to discussed the prevailing situation in Afghanistan.

During the meeting, the prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s constructive efforts for facilitating peace efforts for achieving an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement to end over four decades-long conflict in Afghanistan. He said that the escalation of conflict and instability in Afghanistan was not in Pakistan’s interest as it would lead to serious challenges for Pakistan in areas of security and influx of refugees, adding that durable peace in Afghanistan would open avenues for regional economic connectivity.

The PM recalled that he had consistently emphasized that there was no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. He further said that the imposition of a government by force would not lead to the resolution of the conflict and that only a negotiated settlement will bring lasting peace and stability to Afghanistan.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s consistent support to a peaceful, stable and united Afghanistan, the PM underlined that a secure and safe Western border was in Pakistan’s own best interest and Pakistan would like to remain closely engaged with the US and other relevant countries for peace efforts. He emphasized the need for all Afghan sides to show flexibility and engage meaningfully with each other.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said that as suggested by him at the recent Central Asia and South Asia Connectivity Conference in Tashkent, it was important for Afghanistan’s neighbours and regional countries to constructively work together for a lasting political settlement in Afghanistan.

Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad is on a one-day visit to Islamabad as part of a visit to the region.