Pak, US officials discuss peace efforts in Afghanistan

Pakistan and the US discussed today regional issues including peace efforts in Afghanistan and the situation along the Line of Control (LoC).

Ambassador Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, met Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Foreign Office (FO) said in a statement.

"The Foreign Secretary also apprised the visiting delegation of the continued ceasefire violations by India that undermined stability of the region," the FO said.

Pakistan's position that a comprehensive dialogue was the only way forward for civilised nations to resolve outstanding issues was reiterated, it said.

The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed regional issues particularly in Afghanistan and agreed that the momentum of the peace initiative unveiled in Kabul by President Ashraf Ghani and followed up in Tashkent needs to be carried forward, the statement said.

The mechanisms for return of refugees and strengthening border management were also discussed, as both sides also reiterated their firm commitments to act against all groups that target Pakistan and Afghanistan, it said.

Noting that the US and Pakistan had a long track record of cooperation, ambassador Wells emphasised the importance of working together to achieve the common objectives of peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region.

The two sides agreed to continue bilateral engagements at all levels.

This was ambassador Wells' second visit to Pakistan this year aimed at continuing the conversation to strengthen bilateral relations and promote peace and security in the region.