KABUL – Pakistan, China and Afghanistan have signed a memorandum ofunderstanding (MoU) to increase cooperation in security and anti-terrorism.

Addressing a joint press conference with the foreign ministers of China andAfghanistan after the conclusion of the first phase of tripartite talks inKabul on Saturday, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that a jointstrategy against terrorism is inevitable for economic progress, peace andstability in the region.

He said that Pakistan is determined to eliminating terrorism completely.“Pakistan and Afghanistan will benefit from improved border system,” hesaid.

He said that Pakistan, China and Afghanistan will have to collectively foilthe designs of enemies of peace in the region.

The minister said that Pakistan will continue to play the role of afacilitator in Afghan reconciliation process. “Pakistan has alwayssupported the dialogue process for peaceful resolution of the Afghanconflict.”

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in his remarks, said that his countrywants to make the Afghan reconciliation process successful.

He said they will play their role to reduce trust deficit between Pakistanand Afghanistan. “China also wants to further strengthen relations withAfghanistan and desires to make it part of CPEC.”