Dr. Mullah Abdul Wasi, Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister’s Office of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, met before noon yesterday with Mr. Richard Lindsay, the United Kingdom’s Special Representative for Afghanistan.
During the meeting, which was held at the ARG, Mr. Richard Lindsay expressed his satisfaction with his visit to Afghanistan and conveyed his condolences over the casualties caused by the recent rocket attacks carried out by Pakistan’s military regime against Afghanistan. He stated that tensions must come to an end and that greater efforts should be made toward building trust.
In response, Dr. Mullah Abdul Wasi thanked the UK Special Representative for his condolences and for his efforts to help resolve the aforementioned issues. He also condemned the recent attacks by Pakistani forces on residential homes and a university in Asadabad, the capital of Kunar Province.
Dr. Mullah Abdul Wasi said that there is no justification for attacks on civilians, particularly women, children, and residential areas. He added that Afghanistan has neither engaged in aggression nor supports violence; however, defending Afghanistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and its people is a legitimate right.
The Chief of Staff of the Prime Minister’s Office called on the UK Special Representative for Afghanistan, as well as friendly countries and organizations working to end tensions between the two countries, to understand the realities and assign blame to the responsible party.
He emphasized that the Islamic Emirate has consistently sought to reduce tensions and strengthen friendly relations with Pakistan, adding that Afghanistan will not allow its territory to be used against others and that Pakistan should also fulfill its commitments.
Dr. Mullah Abdul Wasi also recalled Pakistan’s hosting of Afghan refugees for more than four decades, stating that Afghan refugees have respected Pakistan’s laws and regulations during their displacement. He added that Pakistan should remain committed to the rights of refugees and refrain from causing harm to Afghans.
During the meeting, Mr. Richard Lindsay expressed appreciation for the Islamic Emirate’s peace-oriented stance and said that repeated messages have been conveyed to the Pakistani side to work toward building trust. He emphasized that both sides should take positive steps to create a more cooperative and friendly atmosphere.
He added that war brings difficulties and despair to both sides, and that courage and political will are required to end the challenges. He also stressed that humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan should be allowed to pass through Pakistan.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Mullah Abdul Wasi stated that trade and transit relations, as well as the delivery of humanitarian assistance, should not be affected by political issues. He added that no obstacles have been created regarding the transfer of humanitarian aid, and that if Pakistan takes one step toward ending tensions, the Islamic Emirate will take two steps forward.