RAWALPINDI/WASHINGTON DC: The Biden administration has assured Pakistan of continued assistance to ensure peace in Afghanistan.
After a meeting between Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Acting US Charge d’ Affairs to Pakistan Lesslie Viguerie, Gen Bajwa displayed the hope of increased and strengthened ties between Pakistan and the United States under President Joe Biden.
“Matters of mutual interest, including regional security situation, were discussed during the meeting,” the Inter-Services Public Relations said.
Lesslie Viguerie appreciated Pakistan’s contribution in the Afghanistan Peace Process and expressed satisfaction over the role played by Pakistan.
Previously, the newly appointed US Defence Secretary, Lloyd J Austin reassured Pakistan and stated that the US would continue building relationships with Pakistan’s army and cooperate on key issues.
Austin recognised Pakistan as an essential partner in the peace process in Afghanistan. “If confirmed, I will encourage a regional approach that garners support from neighbours like Pakistan, while also deterring regional actors, from serving as spoilers to the Afghanistan peace process.”
The new Defence Secretary had also said that he would focus on training future Pakistan military leaders through the use of International Military Education and Training (IMET) funds.
“Pakistan will play an important role in any political settlement in Afghanistan,” he continued. “We also need to work with Pakistan to defeat al Qaeda and the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K) and to enhance regional stability.”
