ISLAMABAD – PM Imran Khan today addressed the criticism he attracted fromAfghanistan after suggesting that Kabul should set up an interim governmentbefore elections.

“Remember that we consider you our brothers,” he told the people of theneighbouring country, adding that he had only advised Afghanistan to holdelections through an interim government after drawing lessons fromPakistan’s past.

An election conducted by an interim set-up, which the opposition willconsider a “neutral umpire”, will prevent anarchy in Afghanistan, he added.

“So, people of Afghanistan … we’re giving you a suggestion like abrother. If you don’t want to take it, then don’t; this is not interference[in your internal affairs], but a suggestion only.”