ISLAMABAD – United States’ Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Ambassador Richard Olson called on Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry in Islamabad on Saturday to discuss regional security and efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan.
The Foreign Secretary underlined Pakistan’s focus on effective border management at the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, which would help counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
He added that the country sought the repatriation of Afghan refugees with dignity and safety, and called on the Pakistani and Afghan governments to address this important issue through dialogue and consultation.
He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Quadrilateral Coordination Group as an effective forum to facilitate the Afghan-owned and Afghan-led reconciliation process.
Richard Olson appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for long-term peace and stability in Afghanistan and assured that the United States supported Pakistan’s efforts on border management.
The American envoy stressed that Pakistan’s role in hosting Afghan refugees for more than thirty-five years should not be forgotten by the international community.
He also expressed appreciation for continued close cooperation between Pakistan and the United States on issues of mutual interest.
Both sides agreed on continued constructive engagement between Pakistan and the United States in the fields of trade, investment, training, health and vitality.
