ISLAMABAD – Responding to a question, Pakistan Foreign Officespokesperson said that the US and allied forces should not withdraw fromAfghanistan unless situation stabilizes in the country.When asked that with such statements Pakistan may invite ire of theTaliban, the spokesperson clarified that these forces are staying in thewar torn country as per the mandate of the UN which is renewed every year.He said these forces are staying there for peace, stability and developmentof the country.The spokesperson further stated that there is no military solution to theAfghan conflict. He said negotiated settlement is the most viable option.We are pleased that other important actors are also arriving at the sameconclusion and exploring the possibilities of peace and reconciliation. Hesaid Pakistan welcomes efforts for negotiated settlement and will extendall possible support in this regard.When asked about Indian-Afghan cooperation for developing water reservoirson Kabul river, the spokesperson said that Pakistan and Afghanistan remainengaged for optimal utilization of the available water resources. Webelieve that water resources must be used in a manner that benefit both thecountries and is in line with international laws, norms and the bestpractices for water sharing.He said Pakistan is fencing its border with Afghanistan to check movementof undesirable elements. He said Afghanistan also needs to take similarsteps.The spokesperson said that Chaman crossing point is open between the twocountries as we are committed to facilitate trade and people to people tocontacts with the neighboring country.Responding to a question about the US’s first set of sanctions againstIran, the spokesperson said that we desire that all the parties upholdtheir commitments with regards to the Iranian nuclear deal. He said thecourse of diplomacy and dialogue should be taken to address the issues.He said that Pakistan has also taken up the matter with Iranian and Iraqiauthorities to facilitate the visits of Zaireen to the holy places.