Pak, EU commence dialogue to bring peace in Afghanistan

Pakistan and the EU on Monday announced facilitating the start of a dialogue between the Afghan government and Taliban to bring peace in Afghanistan. The 4th Session of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue was held in Islamabad where Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Quresh and EU Foreign Policy and Security Chief Federica Mogherini led their respective sides.

The two sides discussed regional and foreign policy issues of mutual interest, including the situation in Afghanistan, and also issued a joint press release emphasising the importance of bringing peace in the war-torn country. They agreed to join efforts to resolutely support the Afghan peace process, stressing that the process should be truly Afghanistan-led and owned, according to a statement.

The two sides also agreed "to facilitate an inclusive dialogue among the Afghans, notably between the government and the Taliban, which should begin as soon as possible", it said. They decided to continue efforts to fight international terrorism in all its forms and taking decisive and concrete action by all sides and at all levels.

Pakistan and the EU also agreed to "help and facilitate taking the Afghan peace process forward, notably through constructive initiatives at the regional level and with international partners", the statement said. It was also decided to uphold the progress made over the past 18 years in Afghanistan, in particular on the fundamental rights of women children, minorities and vulnerable groups, it said.

The two sides also agreed to make joint efforts in mobilising additional and sustained international assistance for enabling voluntary and dignified return of Afghan refugees. In a joint communique, Pakistan and the EU said they reaffirm their commitment to strengthening of multilateralism and adherence to the principles and purposes of the UN charter as well as international law.

"Pakistan and the EU agreed the Strategic Engagement Plan (SEP), which signifies the growing momentum of Pakistan-EU relations and sets the direction for enhanced engagement," it said. The EU side welcomed the priorities of the Pakistani government, focusing on poverty alleviation, investment in human capital, good governance and the rule of law.

The Pakistan side invited the EU side to take benefit of the improved security situation as an opportunity to enhance trade and investment, and people to people contact, including tourism. The two sides reaffirmed their resolve for the promotion and protection of human rights and shared their perspectives on issues related to freedom of religion or belief and the role of civil society.

The EU side recognised Pakistan's significant contribution in the fight against terrorism and renewed focus on the implantation of Pakistan's National Action Plan and in this context reiterated the EU's continued support, according to the communique.