US economic engagement with Kabul vital for stable Afghanistan: FM tells Blinken

DM Monitoring

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation to discuss the rapidly changing situation in Afghanistan. During the telephone call, FM Qureshi said that Pakistan would remain engaged with Washington and other international partners in promoting efforts for supporting a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. He shared Pakistan’s perspective noting the significant change in the situation within a short span and the avoidance of violence and stressed the importance of inclusive political settlement as the best way forward.
Continued US economic engagement with Afghanistan is of crucial importance as well, he added. He also apprised Antony Blinken of Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate the evacuation of personnel and staff of diplomatic missions, international organizations, media and others.
The foreign minister also underlined Pakistan’s commitment to forging a broad-based, long-term and sustainable relationship with the United States that is anchored in peace, deeper economic cooperation and regional connectivity.
Meanwhile, in a brief statement issued by the Blinken’s office, Spokesperson Ned Price said that they discussed Afghanistan and the developing situation there.