Islamabad backs intra-Afghan dialogue

KABUL’s Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf on Tuesday promised all possible support for an intra-Afghan dialogue for the sake of peace and security of the war-ravaged country.

Ashraf held out the commitment at a meeting with Afghan lawmaker Mohammad Mohaqiq, who is also head of the Hezb-i-Wahadat Mardum-i-Afghan Party, at a meeting in Islamabad.

He linked peace in Afghanistan to regional progress and development, saying Pakistan was desirous of friendly relations with all Afghan ethnic and political groups. He maintained stability in Afghanistan was essential for stability in Pakistan.

About the Quetta attack targeting the Hazara community, the prime minister said his government had ordered an operation against the perpetrators, according to a statement from the Pakistan embassy in Kabul. 

Mohaqiq expressed condolences over the deaths and thanked the Pakistan government for establishing a university in northern Balkh province. He hoped it would be inaugurated soon.

He also expressed his gratitude to the government of Pakistan for extending scholarships to Afghan students. Mohaqiq agreed with the prime minister on the need for a joint fight against terrorism and militancy.

pr/mud

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