Afghanistan not taking effective steps for peace: COAS

RAWALPINDI: United States Central Command (Centcom) chief General Joseph L Votel called on Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the discussion of the two commanders focused on the regional security situation with regards to Afghanistan, Pak-Afghan border management and Pakistan’s positive contributions towards peace and stability in the region. While raising the issue of cross-border attacks during the meeting, the COAS said that Afghanistan was not taking effective measures for peace.

General Bajwa said that peace in Afghanistan is more important for Pakistan than any other country, stated the ISPR, adding that the army chief also reiterated that Pakistan has done its best despite constraints and shall continue efforts for the sake of its future in line with aspirations of Pakistani people. However, the same was not being reciprocated as evident from the continued attacks from across the border, the army chief said.

The Centcom chief appreciated and acknowledged Pakistan Army’s contributions and Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war against terror, the ISPR statement said.

APP adds: Meanwhile, General Joseph Votel has completed a two-day visit to Pakistan this week. During his visit, General Votel met with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Zubair Hayat, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt. General Naveed Mukhtar and other officials in Rawalpindi, said a statement issued by the United Embassy here.

General Votel’s meetings continued senior-level US engagement with Pakistani leaders, advancing the Trump Administration’s South Asia policy goals. He also discussed the importance of improved Afghan-Pakistani relations, and emphasised the need for strengthened border security, including measures to coordinate military operations along both sides of the border.

General Votel underscored the vital role Pakistan can play in facilitating a peace process in Afghanistan and in bringing stability and security to the region. He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. He also acknowledged the progress Pakistan has made but stressed the administration’s message that Pakistan must prevent all militants from operating within and across its borders.