ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Imran Khan has welcomed the signing of historicpeace agreement between the United States and Afghan Taliban, whilecautioning all stakeholders to not let the “spoilers” sabotage the peaceefforts.
“This is the start of a peace and reconciliation process to end decades ofwar and suffering of the Afghan people. I have always maintained that apolitical solution, no matter how complex, is the only meaningful path topeace,” said the premier in a tweet minutes after the agreement was signedin Doha.
In a follow up tweet, he also cautioned all stakeholders including theAfghan government, Taliban, US and others “to ensure that spoilers are keptat bay”.
“My prayers for peace for the Afghan people who have suffered for decadesof bloodshed. Pakistan is committed to playing its role in ensuring theagreement holds and succeeds in bringing peace to Afghanistan,” wrote thepremier.
The Foreign Office in an official statement also welcomed the signing oflandmark peace agreement between US and Taliban that would see the gradualwithdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan.
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Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi attended the deal signing ceremony onthe invitation of Qatar in Doha and “welcomed the signing of the PeaceAgreement and said that it carried immense importance — both in symbolismand substance — for Afghanistan, the region and beyond,” according to theFO statement.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan wants a “responsible withdrawal” ofUS troops from Afghanistan. He made the comments in Doha, where he wasinvited to witness a peace deal between the United States and Afghanistan.
He said the peace agreement reflected a significant step forward by the USand the Taliban in advancing the ultimate aim of peace and reconciliationin Afghanistan. “He also appreciated personal contribution of Amir of Qatarto this process.”
