In a meeting in Islamabad, the leaders of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed to fight against terrorism
On May 7, the Foreign Office in Islamabad said the leaders of China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan agreed to fight against terrorism and develop good relations in other economic fields.
A “5th China-Pakistan-Afghanistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue,” held in Islamabad, is attended by the Foreign Ministers of all the countries.
“The three parties have committed to moving forward with political engagement, counterterrorism cooperation, and improving investment, commerce, and communication under the trilateral framework.”
The UN granted special permission to Amir Khan Muttaqi, the “acting foreign minister of Afghanistan,” to visit Pakistan for the three-way engagement. Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang attended the “Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)” meeting in Goa, India, and then travelled to Islamabad to participate in the trilateral.
Separately, on Sunday, Mr. Muttaqi met with Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the foreign minister of Pakistan, and they had “an honest and in-depth discussion” about important topics of interest to both parties, such as connectivity and trade, as well as security and stability.
On matters of security and stability, they highlighted the necessity of greater coordination in the fight against terrorism and increased bilateral cooperation.
The goal of improved regional economic integration and connectedness was advanced by the two sides with regard to bilateral and transit commerce, according to the statement. The two sides emphasised the need to reduce trade barriers.
According to a statement from the army’s media wing, Mr. Muttaqi also met with General Syed Asim Munir, the head of the Pakistani army, and the two of them spoke about matters of mutual interest, including aspects of regional security, border management, and formalising bilateral security arrangements for enhancing the present safety environment.
In order to effectively combat the shared threats of terrorism and extremism, COAS emphasised the need for increased cooperation between the two friendly neighbours.
“He emphasised the demand for the Afghan Interim Government’s complete backing and dedication on topics of mutual interest,” the statement said.
According to the statement, Mr. Muttaqi praised Pakistan’s historical assistance to the Afghan people and recognised the significant role Pakistan continues to play in promoting peace and growth in Afghanistan.
