RAWALPINDI : A multi-agency Afghan delegation led by Mr Mohammad HanifAtmar, National Security Adviser (NSA) Afghanistan met General Qamar JavedBajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for a high level bilateral meeting.

The Afghan delegation comprised Mr Mohammad Masoom Stanekzai, Head of NDS,Mr Wais Ahmad Barmak, Interior Minister Afghanistan, Mr Omar Zakhilwal,Ambassador of Afghanistan to Pakistan and other Afghan officials.

The Pakistani side was also joined by Ms Tehmina Janjua, Foreign Secretary.Talks focused on the operationalization of recently concluded AfghanPakistan Action Plan for Peace and Stability (APAPPS).

The Afghan side was appreciative of Pakistan’s initiative in preparation ofthe framework document to improve cooperation and coordination between thetwo brotherly countries on a host of confidence building and substantivemeasures.

The two sides agreed to fast track the formulation of working groups,especially on bilateral security cooperation and to undertake measures thatwould assist both sides in reduction of violence at the hands of terrorists.

Afghanistan NSA Mr Mohammad Hanif Atmar said that Afghanistan has verypositive expectations from Pakistan and with mutual help, we can allay eachother’s concerns and apply our energies to bring about enduring peace andstability.

General Qamar Javed Bajwa said that both Pakistan and Afghanistan havesuffered heavily due to prolonged conflict and must together explore waysto usher peace in the region by defeating the common enemy.

COAS said that we must begin with the trust that neither covets an inch ofthe others territory nor is letting its land being used against the other.“Suspicions will only fuel negativity and facilitate detractors,” he said.

Both sides chalked out outline plans for operationalising APAPPS and sharedideas towards Afghan reconciliation as the roadmap for lasting peace.Afghan delegation also extended invitation on behalf of Afghan President toCOAS for visiting Kabul, which he accepted.