RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa Thursday highlighted the concerns of Pakistan regarding peace and stability in the region in front of a delegation comprising US ambassadors and officials, the military’s media wing said.
According to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief reiterated that “Pakistan has done its best despite constraints, and shall continue its efforts for the sake of the future of Pakistan and in line with the aspirations of Pakistani people.”
The delegation, comprising Lisa Curtis, Ambassador Alice G. Wells, Ambassador David Hale and others representatives briefed the army chief on contours of the US strategy in South Asia.
The discussion focused on regional security situation including Afghanistan and that how Pakistan has positively contributed towards peace and stability in the region, ISPR said.
The delegation appreciated and acknowledged Pakistan Army’s contributions and Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war against terrorism.
Earlier, Pakistan and United States agreed to continue discussions on all matters of mutual interest for bilateral cooperation and peace in the region.
The understanding came during delegation level talks in Islamabad on Thursday. US Interagency delegation was led by Deputy Assistant to the President and National Security Council Senior Director for South Asia Ms. Lisa Curtis. Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua led the Pakistani side.
The two sides reviewed the State of play in relationship in wake of the US strategy on Afghanistan and South Asia.
Reiterating Pakistan’s stance for a politically negotiated settlement owned and led by Afghans, Foreign Secretary reaffirmed Pakistan’s constructive participation in all regional and bilateral mechanisms aimed at pursuing a peaceful solution to Afghan conflict.
It was noted that persistent Indian refusal to engage with Pakistan despite Pakistan’s repeated overtures for a comprehensive dialogue was adversely impacting regional stability.
The US delegation emphasized the importance of reinvigorating the bilateral relationship in order to achieve the common objectives of peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region. INP
