PM Imran urges Afghan leader to seize ‘historic opportunity’ for political settlement

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan urged Afghan leaders on Wednesday to “seize the historic opportunity” for an intra-Afghanistan political settlement and ensure peace returns to the country after 19 years of war.

According to Radio Pakistan, the premier made the comments during a telephonic conversation with Chairman Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah.

“Afghan leaders must seize this historic opportunity to achieve an inclusive political settlement contributing to durable peace, security, and prosperity in Afghanistan,” PM Imran said.

Saying that Pakistan looks forward to the commencement of Intra-Afghan Negotiations at the earliest, the premier added that there was “no military solution” to the conflict in the country.

He invited Afghanistan’s leader Dr Abdullah Abdullah to visit Pakistan so the two countries can foster deeper ties and discuss the Afghan reconciliation process.

In a phone call with HE @ImranKhanPTI, I appreciated PAK’s support for the peace process. We reiterated on the unique opportunity to reduce violence, start I/A talks & pursue a path to a dignified & durable peace.
I thanked the PM for invitation, & visit Pakistan in near future. pic.twitter.com/xcb4ulEXlI

— Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (@DrabdullahCE) August 26, 2020

In a separate tweet, Abdullah said he spoke to PM Imran over the phone and thanked him for the invitation, adding that he would visit Pakistan soon.