Tashkent, JUL 29 /DNA/ – Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi in Tashkent on the sidelines of the SCO Foreign Ministers meeting.

During the meeting, the Foreign Minister reiterated solidarity and support for Afghan people following the destruction caused by recent earthquake in Afghanistan. He added that Pakistan remained firmly committed to a peaceful, stable, prosperous and connected Afghanistan.

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasised that there was prospect of ending four-decade long conflict and establishing sustainable peace and stability in Afghanistan and the region. He highlighted the various steps taken by Pakistan to support bilateral engagements with Afghanistan and facilitating international humanitarian assistance.

The Foreign Minister also underlined the need for enhanced cooperation to promote economic integration and regional connectivity. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment for regional connectivity and infrastructure projects including TAPI, CASA 1000 and TAP.

Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Amir Khan Muttaqi thanked the Foreign Minister for dispatching humanitarian assistance and for hosting Afghan refugees for the last four decades. He said that Pakistan may consider expanding its trade with Central Asian Republics through Afghanistan, which would further promote regional peace and security.