ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Foreign Minister Khawaja Asif has said his country will welcome involvement of the United States in easing tensions with India. However, it is opposed to President Donald Trump's proposal to give a bigger role to New Delhi in war-torn Afghanistan. In a media addressing after the fourth round of Pakistan-US Track-II diplomatic talks in the capital, Asif said handing over an expanded role could result in more chaos.
He said the US has assured Pakistan that New Delhi's role in Afghanistan will only be limited to economic assistance. “Pakistan welcomes mediation by the United States in easing its ties with India as Pakistan has always opted for comprehensive dialogue for peaceful neighbourhood,” he said. He added that Afghanistan should deal with the issue of terrorists safe havens which are used to launch attack in Pakistan. Asif emphasised that SAARC should be made active and steps should be taken for promotion of regional trade as the region has long been suffering due to instability in Afghanistan.
He said Pakistan's effective counter-terrorism efforts have dismantled the surge of terrorist networks. “Self defence and self-interest being our first priority, we are fully committed to protect the sovereignty of our motherland,” he said. The minister said Pak would not allow its soil to be used against any other country. “In the era of challenging and complex international relations, states should focus on long-term partnerships and cooperation.” Pakistan has reached out to other regional countries and fora like SAARC in its efforts for peace in its neighbourhood.
Stressing that intelligence sharing is imperative for improving border management, Asif said the US should share timely intelligence and Pakistan will take action. “With peace and stability in Afghanistan as our ultimate goal, we have been and are ready to extend every possible cooperation to achieve that end.”
