Pakistan decides to continue peace talks with Taliban

KABUL on a slow pace based on a wait and see policy, a powerful Pakistani committee on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s resolve to improve relations with neighbouring countries.

Chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and attended by high military and civil officials, the Cabinet Committee on National Security discussed Pakistan relations in light of the April 5 presidential elections.

The meeting came a day after the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan announced the decision to not extend its 40-days old ceasefire.

In his opening remarks, Sharif said Pakistan was facing serious security challenges which need to be tackled and overcome.

Briefed by Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, the committee discussed a number of issues related to internal and external security, including talks with the TTP, situation in insurgency-hit Balochistan province and the situation on border with Afghanistan.

The committee congratulated the Afghan people on successful elections and resolved to strengthen democratic institutions in Afghanistan.

The Committee endorsed the vision to put Pakistan on the crossroads of opportunity rather than conflict to spur growth for prosperity of the people.

pr/ma

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