FM calls for assisting Afghanistan to stand on its own feet

Islamabad: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has called for assisting Afghanistan to stand on its own feet.

Addressing the third meeting of Neighbouring Countries of Afghanistan in China, he said there is a historic opportunity after forty years of conflict to finally establish sustainable peace in Afghanistan. The process could be consolidated by working together in a constructive partnership.

He said beyond the immediate humanitarian question, we need to think of long term economic sustainability and development. The lives of the ordinary Afghans will not improve until the wheels of commerce and industry are allowed to spin.

The Foreign Minister said only a viable and prosperous Afghanistan in the long run will serve as a trade and energy corridor for the entire region. He therefore stressed that promotion of regional connectivity and energy projects in Afghanistan should remain the cherished goals.

He underlined that the frozen Afghan foreign bank reserves belong to the Afghan nation and their utilization should be the sovereign decision of Afghanistan. We will continue to support Afghanistan's access to its frozen assets so that these precious resources can be utilized for the welfare of Afghans.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said the lingering question of recognition of the interim Afghan government cannot be left unaddressed for much longer. It is imperative that the international community particularly the neighbouring countries of Afghanistan consider how to move forward on developing consensus on recognition in a phased manner.

The Foreign Minister urged the Afghan authorities to keep taking positive measures including allowing girls' access to education and promotion of human rights which would help in further promoting international engagement and access to needed financial resources.