FM for role of Russia, Germany for economic assistance to Afghans

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has urged the international community to play its role in providing economic assistance to Afghans on humanitarian basis.
In a telephonic conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas on telephone on Saturday, Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan always supported the Afghan peace process.
The foreign minister said in the present situation, the security of Afghan citizens and the protection of their rights should be a top priority. He said Pakistan is committed to the early implementation of the Stream Gas Pipeline Project with Russia.
Qureshi noted that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is important not only for Pakistan but also the entire region. The foreign minister said that Pakistan is extending full facilitation to the different governments in evacuation of their citizens.
Talking to his German counterpart Heiko Maas, the foreign minister said peace in Afghanistan is essential for stability in the region. He also invited his German counterpart to visit Pakistan.
While sharing Pakistan’s perspective, the foreign minister said that the situation has changed significantly within a short span of time. He added that in the prevailing circumstances, it was extremely important to ensure safety and security of the Afghan people and protection of the rights of all Afghans.
He emphasised the importance of inclusive political settlement as the best way forward. Qureshi added that it was equally important for the international community to remain engaged in support of the Afghan people. Along with requisite humanitarian assistance, it would be essential to maintain economic engagement.
The foreign minister said that Pakistan would remain engaged with Germany and other international partners in promoting efforts for peaceful and stable Afghanistan. – TLTP