ISLAMABAD, 31 MAY (DNA) – Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi on Tuesday said negotiated settlement of Afghan issues is only the option as the use of force has failed for the last fifteen years.

“Use of forces will not be helpful in bringing about a lasting peace in the war ravaged countr,” this was stated by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi in a meeting with Deputy Secretary, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Australian Special Representative on Afghanistan and Pakistan Ric Wells in Islamabad.

Tariq Fatemi expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Australia. He stressed that trade and economic ties should be further strengthened to the mutual benefit of the two countries.

 The Special Assistant briefed the Australian Special Representative saying Pakistan has made sincere efforts for reconciliation towards Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

Deputy Secretary, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Australian Special Representative on Afghanistan and Pakistan Ric Wells expressed Australia’s interest in enhancing relations with Pakistan in diverse fields.

He said both Pakistan and Australia would discuss ways and means to expand economic relations in the sixth round of Joint Trade Committee meeting, being held in Islamabad tomorrow. Ric Wells appreciated Pakistan’s role in reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. DNA