Pakistan reiterates support for peace, stability in Afghanistan: FM

While addressing the 9th Ministerial Conference of the Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process (HoA-IP), he said that Afghan people have a historic opportunity for establishing peace in their country.

Expressing concern over the violence in Afghanistan, he said that precious lives are being lost due to violent incidents in the country.

“Pakistan played a vital role for continuing the Afghan Peace Process,” he added.

Highlighting Pakistan's contribution towards Afghanistan's development, Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that besides facilitating the peace process Pakistan has been extending all possible support to Afghanistan.

“Pakistan has committed One billion US dollars for Afghanistan's development and reconstruction out of which nearly $ 500 million have already been spent on infrastructure and capacity building projects,” stated Foreign Minister.

He further revealed that a new visa regime has been instituted to facilitate travel between both countries.

“Besides COVID-19 Pakistan has opened five border crossing points with Afghanistan to facilitate bilateral and transit trade,” he mentioned.

While referring Doha agreement he suggested that the progress made on the process should be consolidated preserving the international community's adjustment and the development gains.

Expressing pleasure over participation in the conference, Foreign Minister felicitated the Tajik government for convening the conference amid the novel coronavirus outbreak.