Pakistan playing sincere role in Afg peace process, Qureshi tells Hekmatyar

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan has been playing its reconciliatory role in Afghan peace process with sincerity.
Talking to Hezb-e-Islami Afghanistan leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar here on Monday, the foreign minister said that Prime Minister Imran Khan has categorically stated that the only way for durable peace in Afghanistan is Afghan-owned political dialogue.
The two leaders in their meeting discussed bilateral relations, Afghan peace process and other issues.
Qureshi said, “We are happy that Pakistan’s perspective is being appreciated at global level today.” He said that peace and stability in the region is linked to long-lasting peace in Afghanistan.
He said the Afghan leadership has a unique opportunity in the form of intra-Afghan talks to restore peace in Afghanistan. The minister said that Pakistan will continue its efforts for peace in the region, including Afghanistan.
Afghan problem could only be solved with political dialogue, the foreign minister observed. He said that Pakistan has consistently supported an inclusive, broad-based and comprehensive political settlement through an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.
Speaking on the occasion, Gulbuddin Hekmatyar said, “We consider Pakistan as our second home.”
Leader of Hezb-e-Islami of Afghanistan Gulbuddin Hekmatyar along with a delegation arrived here on Monday on a three-day visit. Hekmatyar during his visit will also call on the Prime Minister, the President and will also meet the chairman Senate, the speaker National Assembly, and other leaders. – TLTP