*WASHINGTON – US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and CentralAsian Affairs Alice Wells has responded over the statement of the PrimeMinister Imran Khan over the regional issues.*
*She has commended Prime Minister Imran Khan for his words over theimportance of having peace on both sides of the border.*
Wells elucidated; “We look forward to working with new government (inPakistan). We are urging them to do more. We welcome (Pakistan PrimeMinister) Imran Khan’s words when he discussed the importance of havingpeace on both sides of the border.”
Addressing a presser, she underscored that Pakistan has a critical role toplay in the long-term stability of Afghanistan, adding; “We encouragePakistan to take stronger steps to ensure that the Taliban comes to thenegotiating table rather than enjoying safe havens in the country. BothPakistan and Afghanistan embarked an effort to improve their ties fornegotiating a solidarity document which we strongly support.”
Throwing light on the Indian role in Afghanistan, the 55-year-old diplomatsaid ; “India is supporting the economic development of Afghanistan up to2020.
She added that Washington wishes to build its long-standing commitment tothe region and has taken important steps to ensure the region’s future isfree, open and operate in a rule-based system.