No military solution to Afghan issue: FM Qureshi

ISLAMABAD (92 news) - Foreign Minister (FM) Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that there was no military solution to the Afghan issue.

The minister said this while speaking at trilateral conference of Afghanistan, Turkey, and for peace in Afghanistan in Istanbul on Friday. Afghan Foreign Minister Hanif Atmar participated in the conference via video link.

He said that after the Afghan people, Pakistan was most affected by the Afghan instability. “Afghanis have the best opportunity to make negotiations fruitful. The joint press conference is a manifestation of our unity of thought,” he added.

FM Qureshi also mentioned that in Afghanistan is imperative for stability in Pakistan and the region.  He said Pakistan has been continuing its sincere reconciliatory efforts for peace in Afghanistan. He said all stakeholders to the Afghan problem will have to play their constructive role to materialize the dream of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Shah Mehmood Qureshi emphasized the need for formulating a comprehensive and implementable plan regarding a time-bound and dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees.

During the conference, views were also exchanged on promoting economic cooperation, enhancing interactions, challenges to regional peace, and dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees.

It may be added that trilateral process comprising Pakistan, Turkey, and Afghanistan has been in place since 2007.