Masood stresses sustained focus on peace

KABUL (Pajhwok): Shahzada Masood, advisor to the president on tribal affairs, has demanded of the national unity government to take concerted steps to ensure lasting peace in the country.

Masood, also former chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), told Pajhwok Afghan News in an exclusive interview sustained focus on stability was vital to efforts at boosting the economy.

The nation expected development from the incumbent government, specifically peace and security, he said. A strong national will was needed to muster support for peace, he added.

“The nation has been living for decades in a constant state of war and fear. Every Afghan is waiting for a peaceful tomorrow,” the advisor observed, stressing an end to uncertainty.

“Afghanistan is known for resolving differences through jirgas and consultations. The current problems should also be settled through mutual understanding,” he suggested.

Referring to current wave of violence, he said the Taliban would ultimately come to the negotiating table because they had achieved nothing from fighting.

Massoud praised former president Hamid Karzai as a personality who kept all Afghans united through hard times during his 13-year rule.

“The country witnessed record growth and achievements during Karzai’s tenure. However, he failed to control rampant corruption in the country,” the advisor explained.

He went on to urge Karzai to extend all-out support to the new administration to ensure peace and tranquility in the country. The country needed to benefit from the ex-president’s experience, he concluded.

rm/mud

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